As the wheel of the year turns once again, we arrive at one of the most sacred times in the old ways—Samhain (pronounced Sow-in). For centuries, this day has marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of the dark half of the year. It’s a time of death, rebirth, and deep spiritual connection—a moment when the veil between the worlds is said to grow thin, allowing the living and the dead to speak once more.

🌾 The True Origins of Samhain

Long before Halloween was about candy and costumes, it was Samhain — an ancient Celtic festival that celebrated the final harvest and honored the spirits of ancestors. The Celts believed that as the days shortened and the nights grew longer, the boundary between this world and the next weakened.

Bonfires were lit to honor and guide the spirits of loved ones home. Villagers left out offerings of food and drink, both to nourish friendly spirits and to ward off those with trickier intentions. In these early traditions, we can already see the roots of our modern trick-or-treating, jack-o’-lanterns, and even the concept of wearing costumes to confuse wandering souls.

When Christianity spread through Celtic lands, the Church adapted many of these customs into All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day, blending pagan reverence with Christian remembrance—yet the heart of Samhain endured. It remained a time to honor the dead, commune with spirits, and prepare for the long winter ahead.

🌙 Listening Between the Worlds

To those who follow a spiritual or intuitive path, this time of year feels different. The air hums with unseen energy. Dreams grow vivid, and synchronicities seem to appear out of nowhere. It’s not your imagination—this is the season when the veil is thinnest, when our loved ones, guides, and ancestors can reach us most easily.

You may feel their presence in small ways—a scent that suddenly fills the room, a flicker of candlelight, a song that comes on at the perfect moment, or even a whisper in the quiet if you listen closely enough.
Sometimes they appear in dreams with messages of comfort or guidance. Other times, they simply visit to remind us that love is eternal.

🕯️ Dumb Dinners & Soul Cakes

Our ancestors held Dumb Suppers—silent meals shared with the dead. A plate would be set for a loved one who had passed, candles lit, and the meal eaten in reverent quiet. It was a sacred act of remembrance and communion, one that spoke louder than words ever could.

They also baked Soul Cakes, small spiced treats often marked with a cross or sigil, shared with neighbors and travelers in exchange for prayers for the dead. The cakes represented love made tangible—a way to nourish the spirits and bring blessing to those still living.

If you feel called, you can carry on these traditions in your own way.
Set an extra place at your table tonight. Speak the names of your loved ones. Bake something in their honor. Light a candle and simply listen. The veil is thin — and they are always closer than you think.

🍂 A Modern Way to Honor the Old Ways

Samhain isn’t just about death; it’s about the cycle of life — endings that make way for beginnings, and remembering that even in darkness, there is deep and sacred beauty.

This year, as the leaves fall and the air grows cold, take a moment to reflect:
What are you ready to release?
Who are you ready to honor?
And what part of yourself are you ready to be reborn?

Tonight, may your heart be light, your home warm, and your spirit open to the whispers of those who love you still. 🌙

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Much love and many blessings,
Mrs. B 🌕🕯️✨