Forget…
- ….how Halloween originated (most people don’t know; the ones who do don’t seem to really care; and the ones who do know and really hate it make it known.)
- .….the candy (most of us say we love that part).
- …..costumes: most people just like dressing (and acting) differently than which (or is that witch?) they really are. It actually seems to be more of an adult celebration these days….doesn’t it?
- …..the sugar highs and headaches the next day!
But don’t forget what I’m about to share with you….please.
Having known a few families (including my own) who’ve endured some very deep and devastating hardships, it’s really hard to laugh at, enjoy, tolerate, or even look at some things that are portrayed in yards, storefronts, and on many costume counters and people who “dress up”.
If you’ve known someone who’s taken their own life (suicide) or someone whose life has been taken from them (murder), these displays and costumes are difficult to view with humor. Death, physical or emotionally harm, and their results are tragic. Some things one never forgets.
Honestly, it’s hard for me (and no, I won’t share why) and many others to view blood, guts, and heads lying on the ground – even if it’s pretend. Memories – whether imagined from a situation that was real or from viewing something really awful happening makes this time of year a bit of a challenge.
We won’t ask you to take anything down or dress differently….but just recognize that we’re out here. We aren’t laughing….we’re just getting through this season.
So what works for me: fall scents, pumpkins, fall leaves, gorgeous changing colors….and then a big dose of Thanksgiving (in part) because celebrating Halloween is finally over.