Symbols and Celebrations For Life

We are people of symbols and celebrations. These give meaning, call
us back to that meaning, root us in a new identity that empowers
choices and determination. Without symbols and celebrations life
becomes a series of moments that are disconnected, where we live in
one moment that has no real connection to something deeper as well as
to the next moment.

Symbols and celebrations go hand in hand. The celebration reminds us
of the power of a symbol (think wedding ring or baptism). The
celebration infuses the symbol with meaning that can alter the rest of
the day and the rest of life.

Of course symbols can become flat and the celebration just another
meal. The symbol and the celebration is a calling to our roots but we
must go there, emotionally and willfully. If we fully engage in the
symbol and celebration the world opens to us once again, and we are
changed.

Symbols and celebrations give us roots which is emotional power,
activates the will and shapes life. The symbol, if reflected upon,
gives us a sense of identity, determination along with awe and
wonder. Seeing someone else experience God in baptism can empower me
to live fully obedient, fully committed. Seeing someone else in
baptism can remind me of my grace-filled acceptance by Jesus. And
that shapes the rest of my life.

We need celebrations and symbols. If we celebrate the moment, not
just have a party but celebrate the specific moment, the world of
God's love and presence opens to us again. If we reflect on the
symbol, as in a wedding ring, our joy in our chosen one is fanned into
a flame again.

We need symbols and celebrations. Just another party isn't good
enough. We need a real celebration!