Dining Between the Realms

Dining Between the Realms – by Amber Mackenzie

This time of the year many of us are preparing for the veil between the realms to thin and the access to the spirits of our ancestors and other guardians or guides seems attainable for even the novice practitioner. Festivals, rituals, and all sorts of ceremonial activities have been established and are so much a part of the season, that we can easily find decor that is representative of the mood of this special time. And, it is a special time. While having a sugar skull cookie may not make you feel immediately connected to your departed ancestors, there is something fun and lighthearted about a decorated skull. This seems to transform the macabre into something safe and even welcoming.

Consider the menu and the place setting so they reflect the mood of the occasion and the reason you are inviting. Flowers are a wonderful way to honor your ancestors, guides, and deities. Did you know there are florist lists that go on for days that explain why certain flowers are chosen for certain occasions? Some flowers are even edible, so making them a part of the meal or as a lovely garnish can increase the inherent energy of the flower itself! Use caution in picking flowers to eat but some common edibles include dandelion, marigolds, carnations, clover, hibiscus, honeysuckle flowers, lilac, pansy, roses, violets, and yucca petals. Do a little research about the parts of the flower that is best to use for your purpose.

Setting a place at the table for your departed ancestor is referred to as a dumb-supper. This can be done at any time, but you will see specific dates and ways to host this from many different sources. The goal of the supper is simple, you are inviting your departed guest into your home with a seat at the table. The feast is prepared for the living and the dead and will usually consist of a few family favorites, or things specific to the invited guest. The aroma of the foods, drinks, and incense burned is the feast for the spirit, so don’t expect the food to disappear in front of your eyes. The point is to honor their memory and offer some kind of gift or token each time you make a request for their help in your own magickal work.

Word of caution… No matter how you decide to cross the realms, be sure you know how to rescind an invitation if something shows up that wasn’t expected!

***I created a pin for useful correspondences.  Add it to your E-book of shadows for creating your own special traditions.

~Amber