December 31st – Time for a Bonenkei
December 31, 2008 – 11:00 am
Bonenkai elements - Fire, pen & paper, burning dish
Today is a special day for me. It’s the day I celebrate Bonenkei, (pronounced bone – an – key.) Bonenkei is a Japanese celebration, usually a work-centered party, that invites people to forget the troubles and woes of the year. Of course, they do it by drinking themselves into a stupor so you forget everything. Since I do not drink or condone such behavior, I take a more Celtic approach.
In my home, we light a candle or start a fire in the fireplace. Everyone gets a piece of paper and is given quiet time to reflect on the things they most want to relinquish from their lives. You can go as deep as you wish.
Prepare yourself to let go, i.e. Give it to God or your HP
I’ve seen some lists that include petty stuff like “my cranky mother-in-law” as well as truly deep-seated issues like “the illusion of poverty and lack.”
If you’re Catholic, consider this ritual something like confession without the middleman. Once you are comfortable with your list, take it to the fire and let it burn.
Imagine new possibilities
As it burns, think about letting go of those things and open yourself to the possibility of life free of them.
Then celebrate however you do.
Life is good.
Happy Day,
Trish
PS – The underwear has gone to a new home. Thanks for all your feedback.
