Halloween While Being Eastern Christian

I really don't know why this question comes up in Orthodox circles, but for some reason it does:  Should Orthodox Christians celebrate Halloween?   I think the real question that needs consideration is: What exactly is going on with the holiday and it it an actual threat to your way of life and the Eastern perspective? Let's also remember that this is a Western holiday in a Western cultural context, so when engage in the debate of whether it's appropriate for you or not, you'd better come at it from the actual perspective & understandings of your religion; not some other kind of Christianity.

Some people are concerned that Halloween is a Pagan religious holiday (modern style Paganism, not ancient), and so don't want to participate in another religion. This article from an Orthodox blogger, Recovering Pessimist, is an interview with a modern practicing pagan who discusses their celebrations at this time of year, and shows that Halloween has nothing to do with it. 

The priest at St Mary's Orthodox Church would exhort people in this article to not be paranoid or superstitious -- don't give things power that have none. In your merriment, don't profane death, do not mock other people's sufferings, and remember: "let’s be honest: no one was ever possessed by the devil because he or she dressed up for Halloween or passed out licorice".

A short episode (number six) of Be the Bee states my perspective perfectly. Christians don't need to be afraid of Halloween -- there is no threat there. We can celebrate it as a day for fun, friends, and silliness, and use it as a chance to grow closer to God and each other through communal activity.