Halloween, Forefathers' Eve, or All Souls' Day? Well, at PyraWBryla we have one solution: Respect!

This, Faith!

The end of October is approaching, and like every year, the same discussion begins at the party, on the internet, and over Sunday dinner. On the one hand, pumpkins, cobwebs, and skeletons assail the windows of shops and restaurants. On the other, we hear voices saying that it's "not ours," that it's "American," and above all, that "it's almost All Saints' Day."

And you know what? At PyraWBrylach, we have one answer: stay calm, don't worry. Let's talk about it.

I have a confession to make. I absolutely love Halloween! It's just that. I know, controversial. But for me, this holiday has something magical about it—and I'm not talking about ghosts.

I love them for their creativity. Because adults can feel like kids again for an evening, dreaming up absurd outfits. I love that moment when the autumn gloom in Poznań is suddenly broken by something colorful, fun, and a little bit unusual. It's a one-night stand of relaxation, self-discipline, and simply... fun.

And now I hear the key question: "But how can that be? It's a lack of respect for the dead! It's November 1st!"

Exactly. Right. The day after.

For me, one absolutely does not exclude the other.

Seriously. I guarantee you, on October 31st, you can carve a pumpkin with your child, dress up as a character from your favorite TV show, and laugh at kitschy horror movies, and on November 1st, with complete seriousness, reflection, and love, light a candle on Grandma and Grandpa's grave.

One doesn't diminish the other. Our hearts, and certainly our capacious Poznań minds, are large enough to accommodate joyful traditions (even if borrowed) AND deep respect and remembrance for those no longer with us.

There are also those who prefer to return to our Slavic roots during this time and commemorate Dziady. And that's great! It's a beautiful, unique, and incredibly atmospheric tradition. There are also those for whom this time is solely about All Souls' Day, prayer, and quiet. And that, too, is wonderful and absolutely worthy of respect.

At PyraWBrylach, we believe that the problem isn't Halloween itself. Nor is it Dziady. Nor is it All Souls' Day.

The problem is a lack of tolerance. Judging, peeking into someone's home (or Instagram) and telling them what to feel, what to believe, and how to celebrate.

We love Poznań for being an open city. A city that can be "thrifty" and "tidy," but also modern, dynamic, and full of energy. Here, we have a place for traditional potato dumplings and ramen. For Stary Marych and modern murals. For great history and for small, everyday joys.

So maybe let's just... live and let live?

Want to have fun this Halloween? Have fun and be safe. Want to reflect on loved ones? Have a beautiful, peaceful space for it. Want to explore the tradition of Dziady? Do it with pride.

And above all, let's have mutual "respect." Regardless of what we do on October 31st. This is probably the best thing we can give each other.

This is what I wish for you and myself for this upcoming, special time.

Stay warm and take care of yourself (and others)!

Yours, PyraWBrylach