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A welcoming ritual for a new family member
creates a lovely energetic bond for all involved. Just as our inner landscape is constantly
shifting and changing in response to the world around us, the dynamics of the
families we belong to evolve over time. When we welcome an individual into
our family — whether that individual is human or animal — a transformation
takes place, a shift in the energy of your family unit. The birth or adoption
of a child, the introduction of a spouse or stepparent, or the choice to
bring a pet into your home can mark a new direction in the life of the family
as a whole. A simple welcoming ritual can serve as the platform upon which
every member of the household, old and new, gathers together to joyfully mark
this new phase of family life. Encouraging every member of the family to take
part in the ritual will foster a sense of unity and help members come
together to grow into the new family paradigm. The transition from one family dynamic to
another isn’t always straightforward. The needs and desires of new members of
a household may not always correspond with those of other members of the
household. It is precisely because the introduction of a new family member
can interrupt the flow of energy upon which the family previously thrived
that it is so important to respect the change and honor the induction of the
new addition. When welcoming an adult into your family, a sand ceremony can
reinforce each member’s individuality and symbolically integrate the newest
family member into the whole. During the ceremony, parents, children, and
extended relations are given sand of a different color or texture and, one by
one, they pour it into a thoughtfully chosen container. The rainbow of sand
can then be displayed as a reminder of family unanimity. To honor the
introduction of a child, parents can hold a ritual during which they formally
introduce their child to the other members of the family and invite each to speak
a blessing over the child. Welcoming a pet can be as simple as coming
together in the presence of your new friend and articulating your intention
as a family to provide it with a loving and secure atmosphere in which it can
flourish. As each family is different, you may feel
more comfortable using a ritual or ceremony of your own design to welcome the
new member of your household. However you choose to honor your new family
member, know that your decision to acknowledge the manner in which your
household has grown will make the transition a beautiful and memorable event
in your family history. |
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