...that so many different cultures and societies choose to honor their ancestors at the turning of the year. Since the Celtic New Year is in the fall (Samhain), my ancestors will doubly honored this year.

I wonder what they will make of flowers and incense? Food and money, they understand only too well. I place a large silver coin (with the head of a dead Roman on it) upon the clean, white surface. To this I add some rice cakes, sweetened with honey and a pair of fragrant lotus blossoms. I forgo the incense, as they wouldn't know sandalwood from patchouli.

Kneeling quietly before the shrine, I ask the blessing of those who have gone before. Not a big blessing... just that this year be a little better than the last.

After a while, I rise and depart with a promise to see them again at Samhain.