Passover, Easter, Spring – Oh Boy!
This is the week where the themes of the season overlap each other and give us an opportunity to celebrate rebirth, renewal, and rejuvenation. Wednesday night the festival of Passover began – and its primary celebration of Freedom. I have had the pleasure of attending and hosting many Seders over the years, and without fail the ritual can provide the awareness that Freedom is chosen beyond circumstances – beyond the outer form of persecution or slavery – because true Freedom begins in the mind and leads to opening the heart to new possibilities. History shows that journey is both a fun way (Seders are really fun) to a deep understanding of the journey.
In many parts of the country, Spring has already begun and the obvious renewal of life. Flowers are blooming and trees are blossoming. Here in snow country, I heard a bird in the morning- beginning to tune up for the upcoming season of rebirth. (I personally can’t wait). Even though I can’t see all the signs of Spring, I know it is present – I know this because rebirth never fails. I feel my own rebirth of hope and joy for which Spring is my glad teacher.
Easter gives us two faces – the one of Easter egg coloring and egg hunts – the many artistic expressions of the Easter bunny and of course the baby chick. I have a few friends with chickens – who are excitedly preparing for a new egg season by keeping those chicks warm and cozy. Each Easter of my upbringing, my mom would get me a baby chick or two. Watching their yellow fuzziness and perky movements always brought me the reminder of life and joy.
The second face for religious celebrants, is the Promise that Life is eternal. It brought the example of supreme trust, deep inner knowing and unconditional Love. Regardless of doctrine or belief, there is a magnificent expression to consider in this Promise – that Love triumphs -no matter what- and that Grace is possible in all things. This is a theme worth pondering in challenging moments.
Wherever you are in the world, whatever your chosen theme- take a deep breath and take in the truth – that Spring and its beautiful stories and examples- never fails…there are no exceptions. Peace to everyone!
