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I’m reading “Hello, Goodbye: 75 Rituals for Times of Loss, Celebration & Change” by Day Schildkret and in it, he talks about his work making impermanent altars as a daily ritual. As he describes it, it’s a way of bringing some semblance of order to his life, especially in these uncertain times. This idea inspired me during a recent trip to the beach.
Chris and I went to Aptos beach with our boys yesterday, something we love doing on weekends. It’s a bit too far to drive during the work week, but on weekends, we enjoy slowing down and walking the long, expansive beach while our dogs frolic in the water. As we were walking, soaking in the warm rays of the sun and feeling the perfect, gentle breeze coming off the water, I got excited about the idea of creating an impermanent altar with the stones, feathers, and seashells the ocean had washed ashore.
I love collecting natural objects and usually come home with one or two items that speak to me during my walks, so this seemed like a natural next step. I started picking up the objects that caught my eye, and when I could no longer hold any more in my hands, I sat down in the sand and arranged them into the first thing that came to mind.
I know it’s simple and maybe a little too “on the nose,” but I can’t even begin to describe the childlike joy that welled up inside me as I placed these objects—each one beautiful in its own right—into a pattern that somehow seemed to magnify their beauty. I was left with a deep sense of contentment.
The act of studying each piece and arranging them in a way that felt pleasing to me created a deep feeling of connection to Mother Earth. Through my regard and gratitude, my admiration and respect for the natural world was strongly reinforced.
This simple act of creating an impermanent altar was the beginning of something special for me. It is another point of connection I will continue to nurture between me and my Creator. Many thanks to Day for his inspiration. 🙏🏻
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