There are times when I wish the spirits of the dead WOULD visit some of those who misuse Hallowe'en.

I've lived with death all my life -- my father first, and then a close relative every few years. Last year it was my father-in-law. I can say that I do not fear death, and my family has tried to teach the children that it's just another stage of living.

Dress up, fine. Trick-or-treat for the little ones, great. Hallowe'en parties for adults, cool. Vandalism, hate, the glorification of gore...no, thanks.