How do I view dressing as ghosts at Halloween? Can children join the activities?

I have reservations about activities that make a joke of spirits or involve dressing as ghosts, but do not say that children must never join Halloween activities. I have attended kindergarten events myself, simply appearing in my usual Fu Mo practitioner’s role rather than as a ghost.

Children dressing cutely and enjoying an activity together has value. My concern is whether the cheerful atmosphere makes people see spirits only as cute, harmless characters and abandon discernment and caution. This is a reminder from a faith perspective, not a claim that everyone attending has encountered harm.

The Ghost Festival offering has a different purpose: within the faith, it respectfully invites unseen beings to a meal. That differs from playing with spirits as game characters. First understand an activity, then choose a suitable form of participation. You can enjoy yourself while retaining judgment.

Dao Xuan said certain ghost costumes caused discomfort. That was Dao Xuan’s feeling, not the same reaction personally experienced by me. My concern is whether people enjoying activities can retain respect and discernment toward the unseen. Ordinary gatherings have their enjoyment; there is no need to say every Halloween activity must lead to trouble.