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I recently watched an old movie that involved a beautiful and elegant couple dancing. I don’t know about you, but you won’t find my husband and me dancing the waltz.  So what has changed in our culture and times? Other cultures and countries continue to use music, beat, celebrations, and traditions to mark special milestones and bring communities and families together. Where did we lose the art of celebrating?

It is my daughters who have taught me how to celebrate.  When our eldest daughter was young, she learned at a wedding to clink her glass and make a toast.  “Cheers,” she would exclaim. The cute little “Cheers” that would escape her lips became a blessing to a simple meal I had prepared. It was an acknowledgment that we were blessed to have one another. And it was an invitation to join in the beauty of life.  It is a practice she continues 10 years later.  

Our younger daughter would have a party every day if we let her.  She makes a countdown for every holiday!  It begins as soon as the previous holiday is done. She plans elaborate parties and celebrations (that I tactfully have to tone down). It can be excessive, but she understands that there is something special about celebrating.

All around us there is beauty, accomplishment, good news, and traditions worthy of celebrating.

In a careful reading of the Old Testament it appears as though Israel is to spend most of its time celebrating and preparing to celebrate. There are many feasts and celebrations that God asks Israel to observe. Why is this so important?

God wants us to celebrate for several reasons.  First, celebrating helps us to connect with one another and with God. Secondly, celebrating is fun. We need beauty and fun in our lives. Thirdly, it helps us to remember God’s faithfulness in the past, enjoy the moment, and look forward to the future.  

There are many ways to celebrate. Dare to celebrate the small victories and big.

“Cheers!”

Compliments of Practical Family Living, Inc.

P.O. Box 1676, Appleton, WI 54912 (920) 720-8920

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