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BONUS POST: Light and Darkness

This week was particularly tricky - excuse the pun. Almost everywhere we looked - shops, TV commercials, programming, social media and even private gardens were sending us black and orange - coloured reminders that it was Halloween time. A monumental build up that could only be rivalled by Pick n Pay Clothing... and they display their upcoming Summer season strappy tops in Winter!

It became increasingly difficult to navigate this road as we drew closer to the date - we even skipped Story Hour last week because of the theme.  Without really trying, the subject was taboo in our home. And while we are grateful for unnecessary issues, I felt that this was a good opportunity to reinforce some truths - especially since we were inundated with local pressures to conform.

So bright and early on Wednesday, before we got sheepishly got carried away with the day, we sat down to talk about what we believe as the truth. With thanks to Faith in Kids

1. Let's not (ever) react with unkind words, scoffs and judgement. Be gentle. 

2. The Devil is real - don't be fooled into thinking that he isn't! 

3. Do not be afraid. Jesus conquered death, evil spirits and the Devil.

4. Jesus' light drives out darkness.

5. Be a light in the world.

6. Be generous.

7. We are safe in Jesus.

And here's an important one: We do know how to have fun - we choose not to celebrate certain festivals or occasions - and we can be intentional about how we party! 

Phew! That conversation took most of the morning session but it was worth every minute, especially talking about what 'safe in Jesus' means. 

Ma found a very creative activity called The Pumpkin Prayer which helped to continue the conversation with the kids. A step-by-step guide of pumpkin carving with a sentence prayer for young and old to recite:









Even now, as I read further on some history of the jack-o-lantern, I see the links to this dark occasion and I wonder if we were tricked into participating in some way or if we can take a step back and clean up simple activities with good symbolism that have just been corrupted. This speed bump felt especially big for us as parents since for the most part I think the kids are focused on the opportunity for candy and dress up. But I couldn't leave them to not know better. Ah, adulting...

A school friend took the time to write this up on the topic: To Halloween... or not




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