I was hanging some of the holiday decorations around my home. There is something about the day that all of the winter holiday decorations come out that feels magickal. I carried around a cup of coffee with peppermint in it and hang and set things up. During the holiday season it is important to honor our ancestors and make them feel included in our celebrations. It wasn’t until this one specific holiday season that I fully understood the depth of this. 

I could feel him present and knew without turning around who it was. I kept arranging things as he stood behind me. I work with many spirits who would simply start talking, but this wasn’t his style. He was respectful and gentle. He was thoughtful and present. He always waited his turn and respected my time and energy. 

“I want some of my fishing lures hung on the tree” he said.

“Did you want me to tell your son?” I asked. I have relayed messages for him to his son in the past and his son had said that anytime his father showed up he would welcome messages. 

“Please” he said back.

I smiled and went about decorating. He wanted some fishing lures hung from the tree because he wanted to be a part of their celebrations. He wanted to be honored and remembered and welcomed as part of their holiday celebrations. Honoring your ancestors  during the holidays is a clear sign to them that you welcome their presence and involvement in your life, even if they are not physically with you any longer. 

Each year as I hang the red, green and white wooden chain that my grandfather made I feel him present and feel his gratitude for involving him. Brandy gets poured and left for my grandmother. A plate full of various deserts is placed out for another grandmother and grandfather. I take a Christmas run with another. Learning to honor your ancestors and include them in your holidays will deepen your relationship with them and honor them on the other side of the veil.