[Elspode]

This Samhain is much different than those to which I've grown so accustomed. Month end closing of business kept me at my desk until 7:00 PM this evening. For the past 15 years, 7:00 PM on Samhain has found me hosting a public ritual, and it feels very off kilter to be doing otherwise.

Samhain is when we recognize the end of the old so that the new may replace it. In that spirit, I enjoyed taking my grandson trick or treating, if only for a short time, once I finally made my way home. Fortunately, Leslie is determined to make the most of it, so she has continued to take our little dragon-costumed lad around the block, while I scarf a belated dinner and share my thoughts. Gavin has, at two months shy of three years old, fully grasped the heady concept of Trick or Treat, and is pursuing sugary avarice with tremendous glee, insisting on climbing the neighbors' porches unassisted, and knocking on each door. It may take a few more years of repetition before he has fully mastered the ritualized sequence of knocking, saying "Trick or Treat", and thanking his benefactor for helping to fill his pumpkin, but it will certainly be among the most enjoyable lessons he will learn in his life.

There couldn't be a more perfect Samhain night than the one we are celebrating tonight...crisp, cool air, with little breeze to blow around the copious leaves underfoot, all illuminated by a rising pale lunar orb. Mixed bands of angels, monsters, hobos, and ghouls zigzag across the neighborhood streets, chattering excitedly with their rapidly filling pillowcases clutched tightly in hand. Mothers and fathers stand watching from the ends of driveways and sidewalks as their little ones stride bravely toward unfamiliar doors and shout out their universal, slightly threatening offer.

Needless to say, I am missing those who have gone before me this night, and I will commune with my mother and grandmother before I sleep. But let it be known that I am also missing those of you with whom I have spent so many a Halloween night in reverence and exultation these past several years, and that, alive or otherwise, my thoughts are with you all as well. Blessed Samhain!