REMEMBRANCE - A Day to Remember Our Departed Relatives and Friends

They may be gone, but they are not forgotten

Today, the 2nd of November, is “All Souls Day.” It is a day when Catholics remember their dearly departed. They pray and reflect on their relatives and friends who have left this world to enter the eternal realm.

The Significance of All Souls Day

The 2nd of November is also known as “the Day of the Dead.” This day is celebrated in Mexico with special altars. Families visit the graves of their loved ones and pray for them. They walk in the land of the dead under the stars, cherishing the memories of those who have passed.

We remember those we knew and loved. Their gentle smiles and the impact they had on our lives remain with us. We recall both sad and happy memories. Though they are gone, they continue to walk with us in spirit.

If you have lost a loved one recently, take a moment to say a prayer. They are with you, even if you cannot see them. They watch over you from eternity.

Honouring Our Loved Ones

On this day, many people light candles and offer flowers at gravesites. This act is a beautiful way to honour the memory of those who have passed. It creates a connection between the living and the departed.

Sharing stories about our loved ones can also be a comforting practice. It allows us to celebrate their lives and keep their memories alive. Whether through family gatherings or quiet moments of reflection, these actions help us feel closer to them.

The Importance of Remembrance

Remembrance is essential for healing. It allows us to process our grief and celebrate the lives of those we have lost. Engaging in traditions, such as visiting cemeteries or creating memorials, can provide solace.

In many cultures, food plays a significant role in remembrance. Families prepare favourite dishes of their departed loved ones. Sharing these meals can evoke cherished memories and foster a sense of togetherness.

SHORT STORY

The November Gift

Would she get to keep the gift?

It was the 31st of October when Tracey had a dream. It was not an ordinary dream. In it, she received a small blue box from an Angel. When she awoke the next morning, she remembered part of the dream but did not think much about it.

As she prepared for the day, she was horrified to discover two large wings growing from her back. The white silken wings were fully developed and strong. They folded delicately behind her as she dressed for work.

That night, a hooded figure, calling itself the Keeper of Truth, appeared to her. It told her that she needed to save three people to keep her wings for life. If she failed to save three people within a month, she would lose her special wings.

A week later, on the 7th of November, Tracey saw a young man walking on a busy street. He was listening to music on his earphones when a speeding truck came hurtling towards him. With lightning speed, she swooped in to rescue him, and he was grateful.

On the 15th of November, Tracey noticed a young woman about to jump off a bridge. She rushed to her side, speaking comfortingly and reminding her that life was worth living. The young woman, Amy, who had lost her husband and was pregnant, changed her mind.

On the 29th of November, Tracey visited her Aunt Hilda in the hospital. Her aunt told her about a young man who was about to die in the next ward. Tracey went to Aaron's bedside and placed her hand above his chest, praying for his recovery. Just then, a stranger entered and revealed that he had just saved the man’s life.

Tracey was shocked to learn that others like her were saving lives to keep their wings.

That night, on the 30th of November, as Tracey went to bed, she dreamed again. This time, she saw herself flying to save people in distress. When she awoke on the 1st of December, she found a feather in her hand. Tracey still had her wings. She realised she had saved three lives: the young man, the young woman Amy, and Amy’s unborn child. Tracey’s life mission became saving others, something she loved deeply.