The Masks We Wear

Becca Flying MonkeyThe Masks We Wear

One of my favorite Halloween costumes that I've worn in recent years is that of one of those Flying Monkey minions of the Wicked Witch from the Wizard of Oz.

There were several things I enjoyed a lot about putting together and wearing that costume, including its uniqueness (I was the only one I saw that year – or any year), the creativity it took (how to make ears and affix to sweatshirt hood – answer: enlist Mom to make out of cardboard and sew), being part of the whole W of O group with the rest of my department at work, etc.

But the thing I enjoyed the most was the reaction I got from other people. Oh the joy of witnessing that wide-eyed look of surprise, followed by recognition, followed by uproarious laughter in my fellow Halloween revelers! I can honestly say that everyone who saw me at least smiled. Even days after I had morphed back into a normal mild-mannered office drone, my co-workers still smiled at me as they remembered the costume. Such is the power of the mask.

I believe that power to cause such a positive reaction in people is the reason that so many people – young and old, regardless of circumstances, take the time, effort, and expense to don a costume every year and go out to be seen. Whether one chooses the mask of a hero or villain, beauty or beast matters little. Each has the power to bring smiles to faces and laughter to hearts.

As we celebrate the harvest season and prepare for the dark winter ahead, what a beautiful gift to give each other. A gift of light that might even last long after the masks come off.