October 31st is actually the feast day of the ancient celtic god of the dead named samhain who, pre-Christian Britons believed, sent the souls of the dead back to their homes on this day. If they were not entertained or did not receive a favourable welcome, then they could cast evil spells on the living- the origination of the modern custom of trick or treat. Everyone has different opinions about 31st October but I have often thought it a bit odd that on this evening some people dress up their children as ghosts, witches or other sinister characters and pretend that these are good role models to follow. Last year we even had a child call at our door dressed as the devil. In America a friend has just taken her boy to a Halloween party dressed in a Buzz Lightyear costume........much more wholesome in my opinion, though I'm sure others on this website would disagree -which is why it often makes for such interesting reading. Some people believe that the "real" feast day is the next day- All hallows day, not the eve of it. On this day some families (eg. mine!) celebrate the lives of people of good will, honesty, kindness etc. of which there are many many examples living amongst us here in Acton.
Kyria- Josephine Sewell ● 5803d