I am a big fan of celebration. I believe that when people hit significant milestones in life or accomplish notable achievements, we should celebrate. I believe that celebrations help us to build strong culture, and when we celebrate in inclusive, joyful, thoughtful ways we strengthen our ties as well as our collective life ways. I thought that everyone felt the same way about celebration, but have learned that's not true. Some people don't believe in celebration--they don't make the time to celebrate the significant events in the lives of their loved ones, and they don't share their joy and celebration with others. That surprises me and makes me wonder why people are resistant to celebration.
For some, I believe this is true because they put intimacy ahead of celebration. It's not that they don't celebrate, but that they celebrate in very quiet, private, and intimate ways. They don't share the celebrations or joy widely, but keep it very close to home. I'm sure there are many advantages to this kind of celebration, but I rarely choose this path as I like to share the happiness and celebration widely.
I think that others may fear the cost, preparation, and socialization of celebration--they simply don't know where to start so they avoid the celebration instead.
And, for some, it may be that they don't think ahead. Those significant milestones and notable achievements creep up on them, and they don't look ahead to create and plan to celebrate those special moments.
It's possible that some people don't want to spend the time, thought, or money on celebrating another person--they may prefer to save that time, thought, and money for their own pursuits instead. For example rather than having a big party to celebrate someone's achievement, they might take a vacation instead.
When we stop celebrating the significant moments in life, I do believe we dilute the good culture possible. These celebrations help to educate members of your group about what's valuable--it gives them a light to follow in their own lives. Yet, when celebrations are exclusive and narrow, they can send the wrong messages to people, messages that negate individuals' personal paths, interests, and passions. That's a consideration too.
How does celebration fit into your life? What kinds of celebrations help you to strengthen your family, friend, or community culture? What is the role of celebration in society and how do you support that? I'll be thinking more about this topic in the days ahead.