Most Filipinos practice after death traditions, like the 40th day memorial.
The belief is that the soul of the departed is still around wandering during the 40-day period, coming back home and visiting the places he/she lived in. So, if you have goosebumps, feel a cool wind, the lights flicker and sense other hints, Casper has come back and visiting you. Creepy!
The purpose of the 40th day is to bid good bye to the departed for him/her never to return again but to rest in peace. Thence, those who are left behind should grieve no more and to move on with their lives.
There's also a dispute on the reckoning of the 40th day. Is it 40 days after death or 40 days after inclusive of the date of death? For example, if one passed away on August 4, when is the 40th day? September 13 or 12?
Anyway, based on the latter, we celebrated the 40th day of a dearly departed. We went to and gathered in his home with his family; so, he would not come to our places for a visit. Due to the pandemic, only a few close relatives and friends got together.
As expected, there were still griefs and crying episodes. When they ebbed, stories were told and exchanged on how good (praises were said) and naughty (laughed out loud) he had been. And, the best part was the food was aplenty and yummy. Burp!
At the ceremony, the celebrating Pastor requested first everyone to give thanks to the Lord.
On my turn, I thanked Him because my wife and I, who are already in our autumn of life, are still alive and kicking despite having comorbidity. I added in a whisper, "The sad thing, though, is I'm still alive but being kicked. He he . . . "
Then, the Pastor delivered and explored his message about rejoicing with God even when everything goes awry. He cited Habakkuk Chapter 3, verses 17-18:
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
Definitely, nothing is certain but death and taxes. Let's enjoy life because if He calls you, you can't answer, "Could You call back later, please"! That is, if it's your time, it's your time!Life is really short, so, was the memorial. But, a plan for another get together has already been drawn. Moving on and see you soon!
