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October 31, 2006
Happy Halloween!
I heard an interview this morning with Kenneth Davis, author of the book, Don't Know Much About History. I don't know if this makes him an expert on Halloween, but he spoke very intelligently about the history of the holiday. Halloween does have a long and rich history, steeped in culture, mythology and religion. It is celebrated all over the world with varying traditions.
Modern tradition includes the colors black and orange, jack o lanterns, pumpkin pie, cute children in costumes, candy and trick or treating. Unfortunately, it also includes mischief such as egg throwing, toilet paper, and other (usually teenage) pranks. For me, the fun and creativity of the holiday has been far outshadowed by the scary, unpredictability of the day. As mothers all over the world say, "someone's going to get hurt!" And, someone always does. We got a letter from my daughter's high school principal, warning parents to keep their teens at home.
So, before I sound like the party pooper I can sometimes be, I'll wish you all a happy, safe Halloween. The weather is warm, and there's candy to be eaten!
Posted by Michele at October 31, 2006 1:10 PM
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