For some of us it feels like forever since we’ve shaken off the cares and concerns that seem to be bearing down so heavily as we observe the divisions and discord that has been so prevalent over the past year or so.

The mid-term election is just around the corner, and it feels as though a great burden will be off our shoulders once it’s over. The balance of power in Washington is in play, state seats will be filled, ballot measures determined. More than ever it seems as though so much is at stake in this particular election cycle, no matter which side we align with.

But first comes an old friendly tradition: the celebration of Halloween. We are treated to the sights and sounds of kids dressing up and role playing, going door-to-door gather their sweets, and just plain having fun in the doing.

Grown-ups have their celebration traditions too. Maybe it would be smart to cut loose a little bit this time around – safely, of course. Let out a little steam and spend at least one day when we don’t quite take the world as seriously as we normally do. Somehow it seems like this just might be what we all need.

So, take this advice and join in with the kids a little. Wear a silly costume. Cut loose at a festive party. Be a kid again, if only for this one day.

We often spend too much time at odds with each other. Let’s consider uniting for once, in the name of good clean fun.