Ceremonies

Ceremonies are transformative events, bridging the old and the new.

They help us to let go of our past and step into the promise of what lies ahead. Within every ceremony is a death and rebirth. We honor who we were and the ones we leave behind; we welcome who we have become and acknowledge our place in the cycle of life.

In our culture we usually acknowledge only a few important transitions: birth, puberty, getting a driver’s license, marriage, birth of children and decade birthdays. But what about the first day of school, the arrival of a pet, a divorce, leaving home, a career change, a death? All of these events bring profound change. Clearly, loss can feel devastating, scary, even hopeless. Yet honoring the memories, the lessons learned, the laughter shared is a true celebration of our timeless connections to one another. And within that honoring are the seeds of renewal, of hope, new opportunities and growth. Ceremony becomes the expression of our gratitude for all that has brought us to this new time and place.

Susan encourages you to embrace and honor transformations in your life and in the lives of your loved ones through ceremonies. Whether it be sorting through the memories after the loss of a love one or the tug on your heart at a child’s new accomplishment, uplift that moment in time, let go and become new again.

Every ceremony is a truly unique reflection of the participants and their experience. Contact Susan if you would like assistance in planning a ceremony. Here are few categories to consider:

• Where the ceremony will take place
• What symbols and objects will be held up to honor the transformation
• Who will be witness to this transformation
• What sounds, tastes and smells will accompany the transformation
• How will the message and meaning be expressed (songs, readings…)