ON Friday and Saturday, we commemorate the lives of our departed loved ones. It is an occasion that is traditionally observed with a trip to the cemeteries or memorial parks. The trip, in many cases, may take long hours if our loved ones' resting places happen to be in another part of the country.
The practice often begins on the eve of, or even days before, All Saints' Day, when tombstones are cleaned and repainted, the immediate area around them is swept, and the grass is cut. On the day itself, a public holiday, the country grinds to a halt as whole families stop their daily routines, gather around the graves, lay fresh flowers, light votive candles, pray for their souls, and share stories about their loved ones. Cars line the streets going to cemeteries, enough food and drinks for the whole day, tents, chairs, and even couches and foldable beds are brought for the all-day observance. Priests say masses for the dead and go around to pray for the salvation of the souls of the departed upon request. Often, the celebration extends to the next day, All Souls' Day.
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