I don't consider myself to be religious or even ritualistic. I just try to have fun. If having a Christmas tree every year makes my sister happy, then I go with the flow. If she's happy, it generally means I get presents. So, this is a good reason to partake in the annual ritual we call Christmas. Otherwise I'd be perfectly happy doing fun things with the days off work.
None of this is what made me think about the ritualistic nature of humans. It was my recent participation in Cal Poly's commencement ceremonies that inspired me to contemplate.
Rationally thinking I should have been able to submit my thesis for binding on Friday and feel the HUGE sigh of relief. The "school's out" excitement didn't pop in to my system instantly. Why not?
Friday night my classmates and I held a grand party to celebrate with our families and friends. I had such a good time that I danced myself into a stiff body for the next few days. It was well woth it! No complaints about the dance floor from me!
Even with all the fun on Friday, the sigh of relief didn't come until I was wearing that cap,gown, and hood on Saturday morning. Weird. What difference did it make if I wore a goofy outfit and marched with my classmates in a silly procession into a stadium of wildly wooping moms? All the difference in the world! The "school's out" excitement jumped right into my soul and I felt ready to really begin living my "new" life. Amazing.
A lot of people I know complain about the long boring speeches in the hot sun. For me, this was the most meaningful graduation ever (note the phrase 'most...ever', it's very trendy these days). Perhaps it is because I've already moved, started working, and even made new friends while I wrapped up my thesis revisions. Graduation, and all the silly outfits with lais, cords, and robes marked my timeline. No more double lives for me.There's only one focus now: to have fun! (I'll work hard too, don't worry. Where do you think the money for having fun comes from?)
With the realization that a silly graduation ceremony can mean so much in terms of settling the mind, it's no wonder weddings and funerals are so important. I'll stop here so this blog doesn't become too deep and philosophical. Go have some fun!
(look for me on the dance floor!)
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Unlike a wedding or party, a funeral is 100% for the attendees' benefit. After all, the person who is being honored won't really care if there is a funeral or not. It's all about ritual - helping us cope with the grief of someone's passing.
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