What do We do About Halloween?

Adela was making Halloween plans by the first of September. She wanted to be a monster. Not a cute fluffy monster or a funny monster. No, she wanted to be a nasty, ugly, scary monster.
 
I took comfort in the fact that she is five and Halloween was still a couple months away. I hoped she would change her mind.
 
I honestly don’t know what to do about Halloween. Growing up, I loved this holiday. I simply loved getting to dress up as something out of the ordinary. The candy and the suspense of the day was a bonus. However, today, as a mom, I wonder what is the best way to “do” Halloween?
 
According to history.com, Halloween is a combination of Celtic and Roman tradition. The holiday gets its name because All Saints Day is November 1st  and it used to be called "All Hallows Day" making the 31st "All Hallows Eve" hence the name Halloween.
 
Honestly, my soul doesn’t think much of a day where we honor the belief that ghosts and spirits have yearly come on a single night to wreck havoc. But, the day was also meant to celebrate harvest and community.
 
A couple weeks ago, Adela settled on being a ghost. I wasn’t thrilled. I still don’t know how to handle this. I know this is just one little event in a lifetime of raising a child not to conform to the ways of those around us. As I question the holiday, I am more aware than ever of all the ways I have learned to not blink an eye at everything that we take for granted as "normal" in our society.
 
I sigh as my heart and mind argue back and forth. There are no perfect answers here, but I can do some things to make the most out of this day:
 

• Highlight the idea of sharing and giving to others as we pass out candy.
• Talk about the changing seasons, harvest, and God’s provision.
• If it comes up, use a teachable moment about fear to show Adela how to pray when she feels scared.

 
I can do those things with a cheerful heart.
 
May you all have a happy All Hallows Eve! And, if you have any thoughts or opinions on this, I would love to hear them in the comments or in a message. :) 

You make known to me the path of life;
    you will fill me with joy in your presence,
    with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11, NIV 

​What are some uplifting family traditions you hold for this holiday?