Ceremony

Ceremony is often considered the pinnacle of spiritual practice. Whether sweat lodge or sun dance, it's the moment we gather together as a community to celebrate, honor or commemorate life events, and communicate with Great Spirit.

However, as we continue with our daily lives, we often forget the significance of the sacredness of our own being and that of others, forgetting that spirituality’s not just a one-time event, but a path to help carry ourselves in a sacred way.

The practice of spiritual connection and sacred reverence is not just a once-a-week or sporadic activity. It’s a way of life, a way of being, and a continual process of transformation. The idea of being “sacred” doesn't just apply when we’re in the presence of objects of reverence, or at a specific gathering. It’s a psychological posture. A permanent aspect of our very essence and should guide us in everything we do, in every moment of our lives.

When we consciously realize that we’re sacred and beautiful, we start to treat ourselves with more reverence, respect, and compassion. We begin to recognize the sacred presence that lives in all of us and honor the beauty, strength, and wisdom which flow from it. We recognize that this presence is within every individual, in creatures great and small. In every blade of grass. In every shiny pine needle.

As we continue to practice carrying ourselves in a sacred way, we begin to see the world in a different light. We become mindful of the energy that we bring into physical spaces and are more aware of the effects that our actions and words have on others. We start to act from a place of love, gratitude, and compassion, which creates a more nurturing and harmonious environment.

While ceremonies are powerful, may our life, breath and ceremony, be a celebration of our common humanity. A celebration of love, honesty, respect and rebirth.

By John Gonzalez