Dia De Los Muertos, or what is also known as the Day of the Dead, is a Latin American festival to celebrate life and death. Many believe the festival originated with the Aztecs in Mexico several hundred years ago and has evolved throughout Latin America ever since.

What I find most interesting about the festival is that families will have an Ofrenda or altar of sorts with images of their deceased loved ones, as well as gifts to give to them in the afterlife. I think this practice is a wonderful example of appreciation for those who have come before us, and always maintaining a connection and strong remembrance for our ancestors.

Acknowledging and maintaining appreciation and remembrance for our ancestors is an important aspect of our lives as humans. As I've gotten deeper into parenthood, I realize more and more the importance of bloodlines and just how significant an impact our ancestors have on our lives. Each ancestor has contributed over the course of many centuries to develop our spiritual, emotional, physical, and overall personalities, creating who we are today.

Leaving a legacy through the human-engineered concept for mankind is an incredible gift, one that not many truly attain. However, everyone has an opportunity as a parent to leave a legacy that will traverse bloodlines for centuries, and long after we're gone, a piece of us will continue to live on.

Designating a moment in time to recognize those who have come before us, remember them, celebrate them, and educate our youth about them is a wonderful and truly profound concept. Through gratitude practices like appreciation for the family that have come and gone, taking the time to maintain their relevance through stories and memories, upholding their resting places, and sending gifts to the afterword. These elements can all provide a great source of pride, fulfillment, purpose have happiness for all of us.

Thanks,

Dean