Death anniversary is one of the everyday rituals that every family practices in memory of their departed relatives. It has become an extraordinary occasion such that most families will go to the extent of spending fortunes to ensure they celebrate these occasions in the best way possible. Even though some might feel that it is irresponsible to spend a lot of money and time celebrating the lives of people who are no longer living, these occasions spark exceptional memories of loved ones. Moreover, many people perceive death as a taboo or something that should not be celebrated without remembering that it is not the death that we are celebrating but the good memories left by the departed loved ones.
Reflecting on my family rituals, we have a special day that we have set aside to commemorate our grandparents. We believe that celebrating their death anniversary serves us with good memories that they gave us when they were alive. The most significant moment of this occasion is that we believe their spirits are still hovering around us, offering protection and good fortunes. Listening to This Filipino American Life (TFAL) podcast, Midwife Michelle Mondia states that “an end of life is the death of the physical body but the birth of spiritual life” (21:34). Thus, it is totally in agreement with our belief that, even though our grandparents have died, their spirit is still around watching over us.
Therefore, celebrating the death anniversary should not be a controversial occasion as few might view it. Even though differing traditions and religious beliefs have different ways of commemorating their departed relatives, these occasions are very special. Thus, it is a ritual that should mark a special occasion worth celebrating to be in sync with the spirits of our beloved.
Work Cited
TFAL. “Episode 136 – A Good Death”. A Conversation With Death Doula/Midwife Michelle Mondia, 2021.