Downsizing Has Blunted Our Halloween Joy – Ed Iannuccilli

by Ed Iannuccilli, contributing writer

Since we downsized to a quiet neighborhood down a small street that abuts the woods, we no longer encounter those wonderful children ready at the door, proud of their costumes and trick-or-treating. 

We went from a busy location perfect for Halloween to a place where parents have no place to park. Last year, our first here, we didn’t see a single kid. Our loss. 

Halloween was our chance to welcome eager kids and their parents to a simple night of delight. Parents called out, “Ring the bell. Go ahead. Ring it.” 

As they did so, we opened wide the slightly ajar door to dancing feet, outstretched arms holding pillowcases and pumpkin buckets ready to receive the bounty.  

We sometimes thought we should add something healthy like oranges or apples, but it was the attractive candy that prevailed. Why not? It was Halloween. We did it. Why shouldn’t they? 

The costumes were fascinating, and some curious. Because I always wore one I made myself, I appreciated creativity. It didn’t matter. I enjoyed them all. Pirates, gypsies, superheroes, frightening figures, firefighters, cartoon characters, and witches were popular. There were imaginative ones also; a kid dressed as a businessman, another as Tom Cruise from “Top Gun.” Captain Marvel and The Wizard’s Dorothy caught my eye. All of them inhabited their characters with pride. 

Because we lived near Roger Williams College, we got several undergraduates stepping up to fill their coffers, some costumed, most not. One late evening, as we dimmed the lights thinking the kids were long gone, there came a knock. Standing there were four large young men ‘adorned’ with cooks’ uniforms. “What are you guys supposed to be?” 

“Cooks.” 

“You are cooks! Don’t you work in that restaurant right down the street?” 

“Well… uh, yeah… but.” 

“OK, here you go.” 

For a fleeting moment, people were happy and carefree. It was such a cozy evening, one that we missed last year and will again this year. 

Through children, which is the best way to meet the neighbors, people feel comfortable knocking on doors, chatting, and showcasing their kids.  

There are few occasions these days when people feel relaxed doing that, even just to say hello. Halloween breaks the ice and encourages being neighborly, building community, perhaps not Mayberry, but neighborly enough. 

Small talk became big talk, maybe because it was about kids looking at the future. Generosity. 

We miss that special evening. Downsizing is responsible. Now, in our remote place, the doorbell is silent, and the candy bowl is full. 

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Ed Iannuccilli – edwrites.net