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The leaves begin to change colors and the air turns crisp, autumn arrives with its magical blend of beauty and melancholy. Autumn often encourages us to reevaluate and let go of things, but it's also a perfect time to try and connect with your ancestors.
Today, we'll explore the significance of connecting with them and the various ways you can pay tribute to your forebears during this season of transformation.
Why Autumn?
Autumn is the season of transition. This is usually marked by the changing and falling of leaves. During this time it is often said that the veil between our world and the spiritual one thins, making it the perfect time to reach out to past loved ones and ancestors. There are deferent ways practiced all around the world. Take a moment and research your families history and see what traditions are hidden.
Ways to Connect and Honor Your Ancestors
Create an Alter: Find a place in your home to set up a dedicated space for the alter. Adorn it with photographs, trinkets, letters, and any items that belonged to them. Use candles, rosemary bundles, or incense to help create this sacred space. Once set up, spend time at the alter. Talk to your ancestors, seek their wisdom and insight.
Offerings of Food and Drink: Prepare traditional dishes, or a loved ones favorite treat or drink. These offerings are ways to show respect and remembrance. This allows you and your ancestors to grow a deeper connection.
Veneration Rituals: Research ancestor veneration rituals in alignment to your culture. DO NOT APPROPREATE FROM ANOTHER RELIGION OR SYSTEM OF BELIEFES.
Research your Family Tree: This is a task that has been made easier through the years thanks to 23&Me and Ancestry.com, however keep in mind that you will come across unsettling and disturbing family history. Be prepared to deal with those spirits, because they will come through as well.
Visit Their Gravesites: If you are able to, make a plan to visit your families gravesites, or the gravesites of ancestors. When you do, make sure you bring an offering for the spirits that protect the graveyards. Ask them for permission to take things, and let them know of your intentions. Bring flowers, or a token of remembrance. My personal favorite thing to do is find small rocks or pebbles and leave them on the tombstone as a sign of remembrance. BE RESPECTFUL OF ALL SPIRITS THAT DWEEL THERE. When you leave, make sure to thank the spirits that guard the graveyard.
Ancestor Journal: Find and keep a journal to write down your thoughts and emotions during interactions with your ancestors. Write down any messages that come through from them. They can come in the form of sounds, pictures, words, or feelings. Using this tool will help you gain insight and wisdom of our ancestors, and you can continue to pass the same wisdom and insight down.
Seek Outside Guidance: If you are having issues connecting with your ancestors or finding information, reach out to family, a professional genealogist, a medium, or even a spiritual advisor. Try to use all the tools you can to find accurate information.
Autumn's mysticalness provides an easier doorway to our ancestors. By honoring the past and those who came before we are deepening our connection not only with them but our culture and heritage. So this autumn, try and take some time to create meaningful rituals and engage in traditions to celebrate your ancestors.
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