Original art work by Emily Nutbrown
Special thanks to Linda Stuart, Life Celebrant who recently introduced me to this ritual.
Ritual plays an important role in our lives, especially around the holidays. The lighting of three candles is symbolic in many ways. Each candle represents a piece of my life and the life of those with whom I am gathering. When I light the first candle I acknowledge those who have come before us and those who are no longer with us. I give thanks for the gifts their presence in our lives bestowed upon us, whether they were mentors, friends or family.
As I light the second candle I acknowledge those who are present in our lives – whether they are gathered at the table or elsewhere. I thank them for their love and support in helping us to be all that we can be. In addition, I give thanks for everything else in our lives that has brought us to this moment in time.
The third candle is lit for those who are yet to come into our lives: those who have not yet been born, and those who we have not yet met. Candle number three represents our commit to building the future, together, knowing that creating is messy and that though we may not witness the completion of that which we are building, that this too is part of the natural order of things.
When I light my three candles with those gathered round the table next week, I know that we will be grateful for one another, to be together, and for a future we will continue to build together.
That’s all that’s required to perform this three step ritual. I highly recommend giving it a try.
As always, to those who are struggling this holiday season, know that you are in my heart. As hard as these days may be, they too shall pass and this time next year, things will again look different. Take care of yourselves and stay well. Heike