There was very little talk in those days about Halloween being a dark and pagan-based holiday, like there is today. No one was overly concerned about crimes against young trick-or-treaters. It just didn't happen.
In those days, moms and dads could let the kids trick-or-treat around the neighborhood without direct parental supervision -- at least for the 10-and-over crowd. And they were justified in their trust.
When we dressed as angels and devils, or vampires and ghouls of every kind, we never thought about mimicing dark lords or demi-gods -- or paying tribute to them. Our witches weren't evil and dark, but funny and ugly with warts on their noses and they rode crude brooms of straw. Elvira didn't show up on the scene until we were adults.
There is, of course, the argument that Halloween -- or All Hallow's Eve -- is indeed a pagan celebration dating back to the ancient Druids of England, alleged architects of Stone Henge. Historically, there seems to be some evidence to support that line of reason. Even in today's modern world, there are freaks and disillusioned individuals that believe cult life is better than "normal" life, and use the holiday as an excuse to practise their dark arts.
But this shouldn't keep the innocent and the robust from embracing the modern Halloween concept. There are no Druids walking among us, except those youthful, costumed varieties we occasionally see on Halloween. And celebrating a day to honor the dead is not such a bad concept either -- is it? In Central America, families anxiously await the return of the monarch butterflies from their summer nesting in Canada. The butterflies are said to be carrying the souls of the dead; family members who are allowed one day each year to visit among the living.
Regardless what you believe, or whether you choose to participate in Halloween or not, don't hold in contempt that choose the opposite. After all, it's a personal decision.
Now excuse me -- Halloween is calling. There are jack-o-lanterns to light and candy to gather near the door. My costume awaits and already the day fades to night and the creatures of Halloween are starting their annual trek through the neighborhood. I will not miss a moment. G'night - and Happy Halloween!
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