"Well, of the human body, their skeletons-- their bones-- are the last part to decay, or to burn," Jack explains. "The skeleton is what is left behind most often when we die. So they have become the symbol of the dead in many cultures. But if you turn them into dolls or skull masks, make them bright with flowers and colors, it makes death seem a little less scary. Like there can be joy in death as well, joy for the life that was had and the people who loved them."

He swishes his tails over around Serph's hips, under his wings. "And a parade is a bunch of people walking and dancing together down the street, usually with music and vehicles made up to look pretty with flowers and paper mache, celebrating together."