Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Traditions: Part 3

And now we come to our third and final entry about traditions. This one, very special for Diane.

Remembering.

"I am not a religious person. However, I am a spiritual person. Taking time to light a candle and remember those who we miss has become a ritual, a tradition. I have found that no matter where you are in the world everyone knows what it is like to miss a loved one. It is a common thread that binds us all no matter what your religion or god.

In all the cemeteries I have been to there is always a place to light a candle for those who do not have a memorial or grave in that cemetery. So, Steven and I always search this common place out in the cemetery and I light a candle for my mom. We did this last year in Budapest, in Estonia on Christmas Day and recently when we were Zagreb.

Estonia Christmas 2008
Zagreb August 2009

November 1 is All Saints Day. In Europe, candles light up the cemetery as loved ones place flowers and remember those who have passed. Steven and I went to Kerepesi Cemetery on Sunday and lit a candle for mom. It was very cold and very beautiful."

Where I lit Mom's candle
Do you have any traditions or rituals to remember?

2 comments:

Peggy said...

Great tradition. Wish the cemetaries around here had that.

Diane Kappa said...

I am surprised they don't have something. Maybe this year we go with you.