IT'S THE SMALL THINGS All my life, growing up in the Philippines, and then spending my college years in the United States, Halloween for me has always been a fun occasion to dress up, eat extra candy, and the best excuse to spread the pumpkins, the ghosts, the ghouls and all things spooky among family, and friends. Of course, in the Philippines, it was as much about remembering our dearly beloved and spending time in the cemetery. For a lot of us, it is a long weekend we take advantage of to see new places, go home to family in the province, or take extra time to rest and do whatever we please. Being in Mexico this past year and a half, I have come to notice a lot of similarities between cultures. Most especially now that Dia de los Muertos (the day of the dead) is being celebrated, the honoring of those who have gone before us is at the very core of the celebration. It is prominent that more than the Hallmark Halloween holiday I have been accustomed to growing up; the celebration here is deep rooted in rich cultural traditions more than anything else. From the bright colors, to the skulls, to the face paint; the pan de muerto and the orange flowers that only make an appearance in October, everything, is a part of tradition, and used in part of their offrenda (offering) to honor their dearly beloved. Being in a place with as much respect and love for family as the one I grew up in, there is a certain warmth and level of comfort I find. A place with such a colorful culture and rich traditions do not only add to the fascination of honoring those who have gone before us, it reminds us truly of what is important, and what people place a focus on. Of course, regardless of where I find myself during this time of year, the values I was brought up with always stand strong. And though I may not be able to physically visit the cemeteries where my dearly beloved are, it does not change the fact extra prayers are made to them this time of year, and that I continue to honor them in my own way no matter where I am. At the end of the day, I owe my heritage, and the person that I am today to all them – their hard work, and the legacy they have left behind. And while a day, and in our case, several days are dedicated to honoring our beloved departed, we must not forget that we can, and should continue to make them a part of our everyday by honoring all that they have given to us, and all that they have been to us. The power of a beautiful cultural celebration to remind you of the real reason behind holidays should never be underestimated. In fact, it is something we should be grateful for. Aspects of which I will carry in my heart and mind forever, and will never forget.