Day Twenty-Six
Theme: Ritual
Do you know the word 'ritual'? If you do know the word, what does the word ritual mean to you?
Beginning this day with the two questions, is important. It may be a good word and concept to discuss with your family.
Many families take part in different rituals. At times, rituals are connected to a religion or a holiday. Some rituals happen when there is a special event. Rituals can also be about celebrating something that happens every month, such as a 'full' or 'new' moon.
Rituals can be described as a ceremony to signify a major event. Marriages, coming of age ceremonies, births and deaths are all good examples.
A way to participate in a ritual is to observe the specialness of the event.
Holi is popularly known as the Indian "festival of spring", the "festival of colours", or the "festival of love."
Festivals in India and other places all over the world, celebrate ancient traditions.
Rituals can help us learn about one another. Ask a friend sometime if they celebrate rituals.
The first day of spring, summer or winter are special days where people come together and acknowledge the changing of the seasons. Rituals are performed all over the world.
There are many ways of participating in rituals. People use candles, incense, prayers, chanting and songs, and often have offerings of foods and flowers.
Activity: Did you know you can create your own rituals?
To create a ritual, you'll want it to be something you care about. You can decide what you want to observe, how to observe it, and what you would like to use in your ritual.
Maybe it's about taking care of the earth. Or maybe it's about spending time with your family in a special way. You can decide. It could be something from your imagination as well!
Think about your daily routines, and whether there’s a way to make them more fun or special. It could also be about creating meaningful family time. It might be fun to ask your parents or grandparents if there was something they enjoyed celebrating in their life.
The fun part is imagining: What, Where and How ~ to celebrate or acknowledge the ritual. I bet you have lots of ideas!
This is one way we can make life special. Especially during this time we are all together, to offer light, love and brightness to your day or week.
I can't wait to hear what new rituals you've created. Don't forget to share!
Gratitude: I'm grateful for the sunshine, rain and for the moon! What are you grateful for today?
