We had an interesting discussion around rituals in our group. There is honor and respect for the rituals that exist and, at the same time, the desire to be creators of our own. We began the evening with what may become a birthday ritual. It was Kelly’s birthday and we wrote on post it notes the characteristics that we see and appreciate in her. Then Bob, her husband, got to put the post it notes on her. She was covered in words of affirmation and blessing. We described her with words such as “kind” and “caring.” These words don’t show up in the daily news and are becoming rarer all the time. I had done this activity in a small group study a few years ago and after the activity we came to the conclusion that we don’t hear the affirming words nearly as much as the critical ones – either from ourselves or outside of us. As far as I’m concerned a ritual as simple as being intentional about affirmation can replace any of those in the church that seem to focus on our sin.Of course, one could really have fun creating new rituals. I like the ritual of sharing Graeter’s strawberry chip – a most holy and reverent moment. Amen.
1 comment:
I don't like being the center of attention so it was a bit uncomfortable but it was worth it to hear the affirming words. I tend to focus way too much on the negative (about myself and others!!).
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