Forever Young 🌼💀

The Day of the Dead is far and away one of my favorite holidays. There is something so incredibly beautiful about honoring our loved ones who have passed and celebrating their lives with such pride and passion.

A few years back, I had the privilege of living throughout Mexico during the heart of the pandemic. At that time, the world ached with sadness as life stopped and loved ones passed.

But, for a couple days in early November, Oaxaca City came alive. Flourishing once again with beautiful flowers, joyous dancing, and vibrant music. Altars of long lost loved ones adorned the streets, decorated with all the wonderful things they loved in life.

Their family members laughed and cried and celebrated their loved ones deep into the night. Igniting the flame of their memories. And for a few evenings, you could feel their spirits celebrating along with them - their energy so youthful and vibrant as in their living years.

I find that so very touching. So very beautiful ✨

The older we get, the more loved ones we lose. And the hollower life can feel, at times.

But it warms my heart to remember that, in some way, those we love are never really gone. They are always with us. Laughing, crying, and dancing alongside us - as youthful as we remember them - until the end of our days.

Perhaps the iconic Rod Stewart said it best:

May you never love in vain
And in my heart you will remain
Forever young 🌼💀