Ceremony and Celebration

The invitations for the last celebrations I've gone to or hosted were sent via Evite, email, or a Facebook event.  I can't remember the last time the mail carrier brought a formal invitation to the house. Not that I'm complaining! The procrastinator in me loves the ability to get it done with a push of a button, and I especially appreciate the automatic, electronic reminders of upcoming events.

Gratitude Letterpress Notecards

Between technology and an increasingly informal culture, many of the traditional markers of ceremony have fallen to the wayside.  However, I believe that ceremony remains an integral and important part of our lives. I'd even argue that today's smaller, more informal ceremonies are more meaningful than the spectacular but infrequent celebrations of the past.

Wikipedia describes ceremonies as events of ritual significance.  There is something to be said for incorporating even informal ceremony into our everyday lives. To my mind, ceremony is really about cementing a bond between two or more people, or a bond with a higher power.

To celebrate the end of my chemotherapy treatments, a group of friends and I joined for dinner at a local restaurant.  It was an evening of laughter, great food and drinks, better conversation, and a reconnection with some friends I hadn't seen in a while.  There's a reason that breaking bread together is an integral part of many ceremonies.  For the younger crowd (and some adults), friendship bracelets have become a popular way to show support for someone who is struggling, and to serve as a constant reminder of that bond, even when you are apart.

Friendship Bracelets

One of the most loving ceremonies I've ever witnessed happened when my husband was in the hospital near the end of his life and when he was unable to care for himself. He always clipped his fingernails very short, but with all his other needs, this was one task that just didn't get done.  My oldest daughter noticed, and without saying a word, brought her manicure kit on the next visit.  She spent close to an hour working on his hands and feet, lovingly getting them back to the condition that he preferred, strengthening the bond between them in a way she will never forget, and making him feel just a little more human and a lot more loved.  If there could be a modern version of the story of Jesus washing his disciples' feet, I think this might be it.

And, really, isn't that what caring is all about -- demonstrating to someone that there is a special bond? That they are not alone; that someone is in the fight with them?

Handbuilt Daisy Mug

When I use one of my favorite coffee mugs -- whether it's the tackiest, most touristy one my mom could find during her visit soon after I moved to Washington DC or one of the set given to me 27 years ago by my maid-of-honor -- I remember both the person and the event.  These rituals are insignificant compared to some, but they connect me to my late mother and to a friend I haven't seen in years.  With every use, I strengthen those bonds and celebrate those relationships.

I'd love to hear what little ceremonies or celebrations you've incorporated into your life.  How do you recognize the bonds between yourself and others?

P.S.  The images I've used are of products that will be for sale at www.Boheez.com when the store opens (very shortly). Stay tuned for a special pre-opening Sneak Peek Sale where you'll be able to get some great gifts for yourselves and others at a fantastic price.  And remember, the holiday season isn't all that far away!