Traditions and rituals are what keep us connected and give us a sense of belonging. Life after 50 means things are different than they were 20 years ago. I used to have several traditions such as dinner was always at the table, no TV, no radio, and we talked. (I have to admit, when I blended my family with another, there were four kids who were new to this tradition and it took them a while... but now its one of the most often remembered times.. )
But now that I'm over 50, I miss some of the traditions, so its time to find new ones that fit into my lifestyle, and how I feel about life. Living in Arizona, I am curious about the Native American Indian culture and customs, the way they're spiritually connected to Earth. Take, for instance, how in writings I've found, they refer to Earth, or Mother Earth, as if its a living entity, whereas the rest of us just say "the earth" as if it was a commodity. And I find I prefer that spiritual way of thinking of this planet we live on.
Fire Ceremonies are wonderful during a New Moon, when you want to introduce newness into your Life. This Native American ritual is easy, simple and an awe-inspiring event.
Each brings something to burn that we would like to rid from our past (in Full Moon) that will burn, turn to smoke and release into the ethers. This allows the past energy to move along to its highest spiritual progression path. We may bring pictures, drawings, or intentions written on a piece of paper for the past or the newness. For the past, after we have burned and released it, then we have something prepared that is written down on a clean sheet of paper. This would be something new that we would like to call forth from God. For the newness, the prayer request is then burned and released into the ethers thereby replacing the past.
I think the key factor here is the symbolism of replacing the past with something new. That seems perfectly awesome to me! So a quick run-down of things to have on hand: In a place where you can build a small fire, (don't forget a bucket of water for fire safety!) you will also need something to represent the past: picture, drawing, or a list on paper of the things you'd like to leave in the past. You'll also need something written on a clean sheet of paper for something new.
Around your fire, call your Divine Source that gives you peace (God, Allah, Spirit, Archangels, the Universe), start with a prayer - don't forget to end with a prayer - of thanksgiving for the prayers that will be answered. After you've called your Divine Source, place your items of past energy into the fire, watch them turn to ashes, released into the ethers. Then place your new list into the fire, watching it turn to ashes as well, to replace those old energies.
When its time to move on, having something to do helps us; when we can see that list, the symbolism of something turning to ashes because its over, can be a big help. I've always said its the little things that made a big difference. Even if you can't be here in the Valley of the Sun, perhaps your spirit will feel it -- I'll be outdoors on Friday night, will you?
No comments:
Post a Comment