All Soul’s Day. On November 2d, in the Catholic tradition, we remember those who have died. However, the Wikipedia article, and other sources, don’t tell us why we do. In my youth, I always had mixed feelings about the day; especially, since I had lost my father at the age of 5, and I couldn’t understand why we were praying for deceased people who were allegedly in Heaven, a far better place. I preferred to think that they were praying for us. It is good to remember the dead, just as it is wise to remember that we will die. Memento Mori. Such thoughts cause us to be grateful for the life we have, and to seek joy in every day. But, it has always seemed arrogant to me to claim that we “know” what lies beyond the grave. Perhaps it is better to admit that we do not know, and to live the best lives we can while we are alive. Rest in peace to all my friends and relatives who aren’t with us. Today I remember you, and promise to live the best life I can, as long as I can.
