This time of the year we are reminded daily of the importance of celebrations!  They are everywhere around us, graduations, weddings, showers, family reunions, and other important life events.    What is the significance of celebrating these life events?  Why should we spend the money, time and effort to mark these occasions, anyway?

Well, for several reasons, actually.  First, these celebrations bring families and friends together and serve multiple purposes, not the least of which is to bond us together by sharing in a joyous time and making memories that last a lifetime!    Our connections with friends and family are what keep us going and give our lives purpose and meaning.

Second, milestones in life are made even more special and joyous if we are able to celebrate them with those who share in our joy and love us!  Whether it is a backyard barbecue, a huge pool party,  a formal dinner party, or an intimate dinner for just a few, the point is, celebrations do matter, and they are important for us to engage in.    We recently hosted an Engagement party for our daughter who will be getting married in the Fall.   We had family and friends come from near and far (some coming from other countries) to attend our Engagement celebration!  It was an evening full of fun, joy, and making memories to always treasure!  My daughter and her fiance were pleased and very touched with with large number of people that came together to share their special evening and celebrate their Engagement.    As we know, people today are busy, they have lots on their plates, and too much to do with too little time.   But, in the grand scheme of things, what is more important than relationships?  Life is about relationships in a nutshell, and celebrations enrich our relationships.

Lastly, the memories we make together at these celebrations give us a way of holding onto these precious relationships we hold dear.   It is these wonderful memories that we add to our own life’s patchwork “quilt” and they provide us with warmth and smiles for a lifetime.  Long after the actual celebratory event is over, we cling to our memories and they fuel those connections we feel to our loved ones.

So, celebrations DO matter, and they are essential to living an emotionally healthy life that is connected to others and meaningful.   Celebrating important life events with those we love and care about does enhance our own lives.  Life is precious, and every single day is a gift from God.  Embrace life with gusto and celebrate the milestones with those you love and care about!

– Deborah Olson, M.A., LPC