On this Day of the Dead, we welcome the spirits of our loved ones, tell their stories and remember their love.

I don’t know much about El Dia de Los Muertos, but I’m learning. It’s hard to miss this annual celebration given its trending pop culture status. What draws me in is the rich tradition. The most poignant thing I’ve read is that it’s a day where heaven and earth meet. I like that.

I think about those who have lost loved ones and choose to pay tribute to them not only with flowers and photographs, but also with food, stories and song. It makes sense to me that when we do these things we feel connected to our deceased loved ones. Honoring someone in this way is intentional and purposeful. Tributes like this create legacy. Most of all, at least for myself, in remembering I find some peace in a place where heaven and earth meet.

I’m learning AND healing at the same time.

Empty Chairs, Everywhere is a personal grief diary as I process the loss of my Mother to COVID-19.