Reduction in symbolic celebrations

Because of the limiting nature of modern life and the reducing of many to subsistence-level existence, the scope of celebrations has been reduced from the richness of many past celebrational forms. Traditional celebrations which re-enacted the whole of life have often been forgotten, although weddings and funerals have taken a primary place and are engaged in with passion and in the teeth of the economic reality. There is a need for communities to broaden the scope and number of events to mark the journey through life, and to transpose ancient wisdom into meaningful contemporary forms.

Celebrations most often focus on the pleasant aspects of life, avoiding the fullness of struggles, joys and sorrows of daily living. Living is celebrated as positive achievements and better times rather than its entirety.