The Art of Ceremony
There are so many ways to honor our lives with ceremony, and the profound power that comes with such deep intention and authenticity directs the course of our lives. Utilizing ceremony as a tool in facing hardship, embracing change, and honoring others is a practice that is sorely missed in modern life. As religion evolves or fades in the aftermath of scientific dialogue, things like ceremony and ritual have been cloaked as "taboo" or "woo woo", when they are not necessarily endemic to out-dated philosophies. As the proverbial saying goes, "Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater."
Examples of opportunities for useful ceremony:
Examples of opportunities for useful ceremony:
- After the diagnosis of an illness to discover one's intention and role in the healing process, and decide what routes they want to take with given outcomes. This fosters a sense of control and participation in the course of events and can replace feelings of victimization or helplessness.
- After loss, to acknowledge one's gratitude and joy, release the weight of responsibility or guilt, and develop a sense of closure.
- At changing of life stages such as, Puberty, Adulthood, Parenthood, Menopause, etc. to acknowledge the evolution and strengthen and educate the individual for the challenges ahead.
- Naming a child in a community setting to welcome them into the family and create a stronger sense of solidarity.
- Before a loved one leaves on a trip to strengthen unity and remind them of their support and strength in future endeavors.
- During the time of a loved one's confusion or loss of self confidence, to bolster their sense of purpose and meaning in their community.