Novena: a tradition with origins in the Ascension and waiting for nine days to see what will appear.  It has developed as a tradition of saying prayers, seeking insight mostly observed in the Catholic Church.

     Birthdays are at least one time in the year when I believe we should be about ourselves (some of us need more of that and perhaps some of us need less- and we are told to love neighbor AS we love our selves).  Birthdays are great times to give thanks for our being alive and I mean that more than just biologically.  Scott Peck is right, life is difficult, and for the observant there are mysteries and graces all around us.  Thus, why in our house we spend a week enjoying the event.

     I was having lunch with a friend recently who said, 'Your birthday is this week.  A few questions for you:

      * Have you been faithful to your covenants this year (God, neighbor, marriage, ordination...)  where and where not?  Where do you need to be forgiven, what do you need to render up to God?

     *  What event from the last year would you hold up, recall, give thanks?

     *  What would you offer up as a holding image for the year?  (an image that represents the year)

     *  What is one dream you hold up for this coming year?

     The questions came from the Ecumenical Institute in Chicago and similar questions can be found from Ignatian excercises and others.  They all offer the opportunity for thanksgiving, for personal absolution (which is vital to spiritual/mental/physical/soul health), and for hopefulness.

     One last thought:  I know one family who allowed their children to stay home from school on their birthday and one business that did the same for employees.  They may be on to something.  God looked at creation and said, "It is good."  Perhaps we need time and space to do the same.

Peace,

Todd Donatelli