These reflect one's beliefs about the journey from life to death or to "the next stage." The forms of ceremony are usually dictated by religious and other cultural factors. The body is prepared in some way (cleansed, cremated, dressed); meaningful objects may be included with the body when it is buried, entombed or burned; special decorations are present (flowers, pictures of the deceased); people may tell stories conveying the person's special gifts that can be retained despite the passage; the body or remains are carried to the final resting place, which symbolizes the spiritual journey.

common rite of passage ceremonies and some of their symbolic aspects

Wedding symbols vary by culture and so do their meanings. You must tailor ceremony to the people directly impacted by it. Joining ceremonies like weddings mark the transition between being single to being in partnership, possibly moving to a new home or acquiring a larger family. The "stage" is often decorated with beautiful items; special clothing is worn; a pathway is walked as single and then again with the partner, symbolizing that one's walk in life has changed; rings are exchanged, symbolizing an announcement of the commitment to all who see the rings, or the circle of life, or encircling one another with love and protection, for example. The spiritual aspects, foods served at the reception, even dances performed and by whom are just a few additional symbols of particular meaning.

weddings and other commitment ceremonies

moving? buying a new home? Divorcing? Graduating? Retiring? Coming out of a long period of illness? starting a new business? starting a new life?

A meaningful rite of passage ceremony is appropriate for all of these life changes and more. It should be unique to the honoree and what is meaningful to them about the transition. You can do it! You can create this yourself, or with a little help from me.

You don't need to be a genius or an artist: you just need to care.

puberty rites

ceremonies for loved ones passing on

Although uncommon, this is a very important coming-of-age transition that I marked with my own daughters at age 10. Everything is about to change - their bodies, social lives, emotional stability, sense of themselves, and responsibilities. Useful ceremonies at this age include educational components about the changes ahead, tools to navigate the changes with, validation of their strengths and worth, and welcoming them into the community. Bar and Bat Mitzvah ceremonies celebrate entering into adolescence at about age 13 and include these components as well as spiritual and moral education.