All Hallows' Eve Redeemed

We wear what creeps

to play and sneak for joy with friends and neighbors. We light gourd faces to line our places and bring light

to a season we savor.

We call forth the spirits to stop what inhibits the benefit that passion imparts. We say what's reckless, or mad, or careless, can enliven our childlike hearts.

We seek some darkness to know it is harmless and push it into exile. We dress our bones

like ghouls and crones

knowing life, not death

is fragile. We play with scare to confront despair and prove hope and joy are louder. And, we face what frights to give no rights to our demons so they have no power.

So, have no fear

when Halloween's here

as it shows

that we are stronger

Than the forces or evils

or the fraudulent steeples

and give them life

no longer.