Halloween—Participate big or small or not at all

We don’t have to look far to know goblins, witches, and ghosts have joined us in the transition from summer to falling leaves, sweaters, and football.

Over the years, I’ve wondered why Halloween is so popular and seems to grow more colorful and lively each year. I’ve decided it’s because the holiday holds no vast responsibilities such as big family dinners, presents, or expectations. It’s a time of fun and freedom—we can participate, big or small, or not at all. Maybe it brings out the kid in us.

Past Halloweens hold many memories. Back in the day, I couldn’t go to a store and buy a costume; I sewed them or scrounged around, finding clothes and props to create the characters.

A friend and I once dressed up like an older man and woman for our kid’s school party. We mimed the entire event, and the kids were perfect angels versus the usual challenge of entertaining and containing a room full of sugar-infused munchkins.

On the farm, Trick’r Treating involved miles and miles of country roads and lots of goodies at each stop. Many neighbors rigged up spooky sounds and unexpected scary movements to add to the fun.

This week, my youngest son said he would never forgive me for the Tweetie Bird costume I made for him. He was a skinny little kid, and when he put on the fuzzy bright yellow outfit complete with beak and bird feet, we laughed and laughed. He still finds no humor in the memory.

Today the best part of Halloween is I have a legitimate excuse to buy my favorite chocolate candy. I get no trick-or-treaters, but I need treats just in case my doorbell rings—I prefer treats over tricks. And it was fun buying puppy Lucy a princess costume. She will be prancing in purple tulle.

My rambling relates much to mental health, based on having fun and contributing to the enjoyment of others is good for us, as are the memories. We benefit if we recall events, and a smile grows on our faces. If we dream of how to decorate ourselves or our yards, we have creative juices activated, and we benefit again. Whether we do the work ourselves or only enjoy the efforts of others, any activity invoking the word joy usually enhances life.

Every time I drive down South Division and notice the full-size bed with a person tucked under the covers in front of the motel, my day brightens. It is adorable. I appreciate people’s effort in hanging lights and inflating every imaginable spook. I’ve seen some standing taller than the houses and one skeleton leaning over a roof, hanging onto the hands of another. Very imaginative.

So, share the fun this coming Monday and pay attention to your smiles—each contributes to mental well-being.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

Jennifer Goble, Ph.D., LPC, is the author of “My Clients…My Teachers,” and the blogger and writer of Rural Women Stories: www.ruralwomenstories.com.