Most importantly, this week is about gratitude and expressing it . If tears come forth, let them flow. I need to say those words, in thanksgiving. To be forgiven is a tremendous gift. We want to express our gratitude in words that claim it, and allow us to enter even more deeply into the joy and peace.
Rituals are important.
They involve our bodies and last in our memories. Perhaps I will put my expression of gratitude on paper, in words that express all that I feel, addressing it directly to Jesus or God. For some of us, standing in the solitude of our room, with arms stretching up toward heaven, wonderfully expresses how we feel. For some of us, it will be important to recall a song that we sing, to mark this very special week. Perhaps I will celebrate the Eucharist this week or on Sunday, or participate in my faith community's worship, with a deeper sense of joy.