On my Facebook page I mentioned that October is my favourite month after
December (Christmas!), because of Halloween. When I made the comment I hadn’t put
too much thought as to why this was the case. A few days later I was chatting to a friend
about how books bring a little bit of magic back into our lives—something we
lose once out of childhood—and I realised this was why I also love Halloween
and Christmas so much.
Like most children, I had a vivid imagination. My cats and I used to
fly to the moon in a rocket made of billowed curtains, I would hunt for fairies
in my backyard and I taught my stuffed toys important lessons about facts and
history—mostly made up, of course. Unfortunately, this sense of imagination,
wonder and magic fades as we enter adulthood.
As children, we sang with abandon, danced with arms outstretched,
painted swirly, unrecognisable images, and wrote fanciful stories—all without
fear of judgement. When we’re older we’re told we can only sing if we’re pitch
perfect, dance if no one’s watching, write only if we have a grasp on grammar and
draw when we’ve mastered the skill. Which brings me back to why I love
Halloween and Christmas. At Christmas time I have no shame. I sing carols
off-tune, dance fitfully around half-wrapped presents and I’ll try my hand at
baking, decorating—whatever. The best thing? No one judges. It’s a slice of
childhood returned.
Similarly, at Halloween, I’ll dress up in ridiculous outfits and no
one will point and laugh. I’ll eat handfuls of candy and not apologise for it—or
watch my waistline. And I can act superstitious and silly when the lights go
down before watching a scary movie.
It’s during these times of freedom that we reconnect with the magic
in our lives that was once omnipresent as children. It’s not surprizing then
that these are often the times people feel the most happy and carefree. We
should all try to retain this magic, even if it’s only at Halloween and
Christmas.
Wishing you all a happy Halloween!
Till next time,
Astrid
Astrid
