Parentalia was an ancient Roman festival that began on February 13. It was a time to celebrate honored ancestors. You can honor your beloved family members on this day by bringing flowers and wine to their graves in true Parentalia tradition. If you don't have a grave to visit, create a small altar space on a shelf, desk, or tabletop. Add photographs or some other bits of memorabilia such as collectibles, jewelry, books, or whatever makes you think of the ancestors you want to honor. Whether at the grave or the altar, offer fresh flowers and wine while thinking about all the gifts that your ancestor passed on to you, and feel their spirit flowing through your blood, living in your DNA. As you focus on these gifts, give thanks:
"Here I am, you live within me. I honor you and your legacy. I feel your blessings within my bones. I thank you deeply across the unknown." |