Here in Bali there are constant ceremonies, processions and festivals.  Recently, we’ve had a full moon festival and a cremation ceremony.  The former happens once a month, and the latter, every five years.

At the full moon festival the gods are honored, blessings are done for new things in life, and there is a cleansing of the body and spirit that takes place at the temple.  We visited one of those the other day and saw hundreds of men, women and children all standing together in one giant pool, laughing, splashing, enjoying their holy bath.

As I thought about how we celebrate our blessings, I was struck by the fact that most of us take them for granted.  In the Western world we frequently overlook gratitude as a way of celebrating life.  We have birthdays and anniversaries, promotions and awards, but the day to day stuff we take for granted.  Why is that?

I believe it’s because we are too pressed for time.  Too careless about what happens in our lives.  We don’t spend enough time considering the gifts that are given each day.

At this particular ceremony, I saw a family bless their new car.  It was draped in a ceremonial cloth.  Baskets of food and holy water were sprinkled by the side of the car. The family wanted to make sure good spirits came with the car.  What a lovely way to celebrate life.

In Bali, rituals are a way of life.  Daily offerings, temple processions and ceremonies are all part of the rhythm of the culture.  There is a reverence for life in all it’s glory.

So how do you celebrate life?   Do you take time to consider how blessed you truly are, and if so, what do you do to mark the passage of events?  What are you grateful for?Let someone know how much you appreciate them.

More on the cremation ceremony tomorrow.