What Does Halloween Really Mean?

BY ZOE SHIR

October 31st. It’s the one day a year when you can put on a mask and dress up as any persona or anything you choose. For children, candy is a large factor in their enjoyment of this “holiday.” All around the United States on October 31st the masks are concealing your true identity. We call this night a “holiday” – one you can celebrate with candy and costumes. But, do the young children truly know they are dressing up and running around trick-or-treating to remember the dead? Although gathering candy provides enjoyment and satisfaction, the true meaning of Halloween must be valued.

Day by day we strive to be the best we can be, and Halloween is that one night that allows us to let go. Many think that when we wear a mask or a costume that we are hiding from reality. I see it more as commemorating reality stylishly. Teachers should use the day before Halloween to educate their students on the significance of dressing up and lavishing in candy, then I think this special night would have the ability to take on a whole new meaning. Children can remember those who have made a large impact but have passed, and they can rejoice their lives rather than mourn their deaths.

Moreover into the holiday, Halloween is also known as the Eve of All Hollows, which is the night before we celebrate Allhallowtide for three days. Although it is typically celebrated by Western Christians, the night of dressing up is celebrated by everyone. The original influence of dressing up came from pagan origin. But, if you ask the common kid these are just small facts that they don’t know.
There are so many aspects of this holiday that people don’t recognize, but the best aspect is definitely the crazy costumes. Halloween is the one day of the year when kids, teens, and adults can be whoever they want. They can escape from their lives of stress and frustration, or maybe just have some fun. Halloween is a holiday that allows expression and enjoyment. It should be cherished for years to come, but also it should be remembered for the history it has carried all these years.