The Mexicans have the right idea when they celebrate their traditional Dies de Muertos: Day of the Dead. On this day, which falls about the same time as our Halloween and All Souls', the departed spirits are invited back to their families, to ho

And they are right. Our lives are the country between birth and death, bordered by mystery. They are right and yet this year, the fragility of life and just how close each of us. dances to the edge of our grave has been brought brutally home to us on S

How do one understand 5000 dead anyhow? The mind refuses to accept such a number and it becomes unreal, surreal, as when a child try to imagine eternity or forever. One death we can properly mourn, one death we can, if not accept, at least understand.

We are governed by our will to live and yet we know that we all shall one day leave this wonder filled world and return to God, Goddess, the all embracing universe or simply to the great mystery. But we do not often acknowledge this. We fear dying beca

But a little foresight can save those left behind so much grief and guilt. So if you have not done so yet, do something about it now. Write that will, see that attorney, talk to your family and friends about what you want done.

Other than that I invite you to be aware of the dance we do every day. Live your lives in the way you want to be remembered. Imagine for a moment that you could be present at your own funeral, a favorite fantasy of some people. What are people saying a

Most of us do not have to face so stark a choice. Most of us, thankfully do not know to such a near measure how long we will live. Still I think it helps to be aware and remind our selves, again and again, of the precious gift that life is. And that be

Now I will confess that I am a worrier. I know how hard it is to let go of all those "what ifs". Waiting for medical test results I have a great imagination and can see so many dire possibilities. Let me give you a word of advice here, when you are wai

Well look at whom you remember. Look to your life and the people you have lost who gave meaning, joy, connection, fun, courage, joy and substance to your time together. Think of their names and of the gifts they gave you. Sometimes those gifts are mixe

Give yourself some time to remember. Then, if you wish, come up and light a candle as Ryan plays for us. Let us honor our dead as they live, held deep within our hearts.