I love the enthusiasm that naturally follows when a fresh idea hits home. It is as if the idea has never been articulated, discovered, or even thought of. I watched as excitement, wonder, and hope filled the room! As I considered my battle scars from the past, I wondered if the importance of this moment was understood and appreciated by everyone present. As I looked across the room, especially at those with blank looks and body language that said s/he was anywhere but here, I had my doubts. I wish I could get their attention! This was a time for celebration. Fear, uncertainties, and doubts could be put aside, if only for a time.
If I could have spoken to each, I would have offered the following lessons from celebrations past and present.
When a community achieves an admirable milestone or achievement, it is time to celebrate! It does not matter how big or small one’s role was or is, celebrations are for everyone. Lessons on how one could get to this moment in a kinder or more effective way will still be available tomorrow. Now is the time for celebration. To each and all I would paraphrase the psalmist’ “Sing God a brand-new song! Earth and everyone in it, sing!” (Psalm 96.1)
In every achievement, there are lessons to be learned. When one thinks of lessons, one automatically looks for areas that one should avoid or at least do differently. It is important to start looking for the areas that one should repeat and potentially do a lot more of.
Celebrations often focus on the few that helped the many. My advice is to not worry. Hope, strength, and courage grow when one celebrates. This is, in itself, a good thing that can benefit each in proportion to the amount one allows it to.
As I looked at the ones choosing not to celebrate, I realized that their choice was a refusal to accept a life gift. Sadly, this is an old observation. I caught myself reflecting, hoping that I never make this mistake again.
