10/29/2025
As we enter into the season of darkening days, it might be hard not to let any latent anger, sadness, comparison, or grief overwhelm. And yet, there is deep beauty and satisfaction in the being enveloped by the dark when we are not fighting with ourself. Rituals bring meaning. They allow for us to be intentional around moments that would otherwise pass by in a haze of anxiety or hustle or distraction. Community rituals connect us to the fact that we are not alone. Descanso Gardens creates an ofrenda each year in the Mexican tradition for Dia de Los Mu***os. My family and I wrote the names of family members who have passed, then read so many other names and messages from others who have done the same. We are connected in a web not only of the happy times, but also in sorrow and pain. We can externalize our inner monuments and elevate them through community action and sharing.
