As I close the doors of summer and enter these more interior days of fall, I have been prompted by the upcoming Mexican, Dia de los Muertos celebrations, to create an "ofrenda" or alter to honor and remember family and friends who have passed.
This year, the veil between the worlds feels especially thin and my departed elders feel close. In response, I am lighting candles, remembering stories, finding small images and memorabilia to place on my alter.
I am seeking wisdom and guidance from those who have gone before me, they form a part of my story and have influenced my spirit. While many of these stories hold beauty, some also challenge me. They ask me to re-visit the more difficult chapters; to let go, to forgive, to heal and to love.
Creating my Ofrenda is an "alive poem" that is helping make sense and context of my life in the way that Joy Harjo speaks to in her poem, "Remember";
"... Remember the plants, trees, animal life who all have their
tribes, their families, their histories, too. Talk to them,
listen to them. They are alive poems..." (Read the entire poem here)
I hope you might be inspired to create a cozy place in your home this autumn to remember yourself, your loved ones and the stories, rituals and traditions that have made you the lovely spirit that you are.