Life Transitions: Affirmation, closure and new beginnings

How do we celebrate and move on?

Among my most satisfying ceremonies as a celebrant are life transitions.

Life transitions are those which assist people to take stock of what has gone before, mark the ending or changing of some aspect of their lives, and appreciate the joys and challenges of their new beginning.

In my work as a telephone counsellor I often noted how people became stuck in some aspect of their life, and I was drawn to celebrant work as a means of assisting people to move through life’s transitions in an affirming and uplifting manner in ceremony.

Ceremonies of this type have included:

• Change in career path
• Blessing of a new house
• Change in Career path
• Finishing a course of medical treatment
• Finishing vocational training and moving into a career
• Leaving a job
• Retiring
• Special birthdays
• Separation

Life Transitions: FAQ

Q: How can we make our new home feel free of all the trauma associated with building it?

A:   We can do some form of ‘cleansing’ of the negatives, and introducing blessings and congratulations from friends who can bring a special wish for your life in your new home.  This can be very powerful and affirming.

Q:   My son had to change his career, against his will.  Is there any way we can help him make sense of this?

A:   It can be helpful to have him express his hopes for his previous career and the things that brought him satisfaction.  Then we can affirm those aspects of his talent and skills that can be brought into his new career.  We will be creating a bridge between the two situations, which will help his acceptance and encourage him.

Testimonials