As we travel on our spiritual road, we do not travel alone. There are those who have gone before us. What they provide is a sustaining legacy that does not die with them. They have passed on to us not only what they have said but who they were. This legacy comes to us through many generations. It is given to us and helps make us the people we are.
What a good time to become aware of all that has been given to us from our ancestors! In their culture Mexicans celebrate the “Day of the Dead” on All Soul’s Day. The family goes to the grave site of members who have passed on. They think of the wisdom of their ancestors and how much it still means to them.
We also can bring to mind the gifts that our ancestors have passed on to us. We can thank them for the good things and pray for them to release anything that is holding them back from experiencing the love that God wants to bestow on them in the afterlife. Hopefully we will experience the magnificence of God’s love shining through them. Like St. Paul we can address all of our family members as saints. The church is a communion of saints.
- Are you thinking of the family members who have passed on their wisdom to you?
- What are some of their good values that have become a part of who you are?
- What are some of the values you wish to pass on as part of your legacy?
O God, help me honor those who have gone before me.