November 2, 2010

A perfect day for a picnic

In the Roman Catholic calendar, November 1 is All Saints Day and November 2 is All Souls Day. The difference is a matter of faith and theological doctrine, and too long to discuss here, so just follow the links to Wikipedia if you would like to know more. Whether Catholic or not, however, most Filipinos spend November 1, a holiday in the Philippines, at the graves of their loved ones. And except for some prayers, there's usually nothing solemn about it either. The day becomes a reunion of sorts for family and friends, with food and drinks, and lots of talk and laughter. No, it's not disrespect. Rather, think of it as thanksgiving and a celebration of life—both of those who have died and those who are still here. One thing I'm glad about though is that Loyola Memorial Park has finally banned blaring music—hearing more than a dozen songs playing loudly at the same time can drive one crazy. Families who expect to spend the entire day at the cemetery rent tents to provide shelter from either the sun or rains, either of which we can get at this time of the year. Because I don't like crowds, I went to visit my parents' graves on October 31, which was hot and sunny. I'm glad I did because it was drizzly the whole day yesterday.

Loyola Memorial Park, the day before All Saints Day

7 comments:

George said...

Thanks for an interesting All Saints Day post.

Olivier said...

j'aime beaucoup la tente avec le parasol ;)

Francisca said...

I share your dislike for crowds, Hilda. Yet I've been saying for too many years that I should go to a cemetery on All Saint's Day to capture the fun there. It didn't happen yesterday - the weather was not, as you say, inviting, plus I just had too much work calling me. Hope you had a pleasant long weekend anyway.

Dina said...

It just takes a while for the scene in your photo to sink in.

James Mark said...

Muy interesante - if that's how you say it. 1st November passes virtually unnoticed in the UK, but it's a day off in France, and people will drive across the country to their family cemetery to put flowers, usually chrysanthemums, on the grave. Because of the dark days, bad weather and the increased traffic there are more road accidents than at other times of the year.

Cezar and Léia said...

Glad that it was a beautiful sunny day there!Here the weather is not so good! :(
But I'm happy because it's a free week, without classes!Time to rest a little bit!
Léia

Lois said...

What a nice tradition Hilda.