Today in Japan, Hana-Matsuri is celebrated. A combined celebration of spring , traditional Japanese culture, and quite possibly Buddha’s birthday, the festivities are abundant and gorgeous. Imagine lots of flowers, costumes, and kimonos! Today, perform your own “cultivating tradition” spell.

Choose some small icons that represent your cultural, religious, and familial traditions. My origins are in England, Scotland, and Ireland. Easy associations are tea, shortbread cookies, and my Claddagh ring— a traditional Irish symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship.

Place your cultural icons on your altar. Dress in traditional garb or wear jewelry handed down through your lineage. Safely light a candle to illuminate and warm your traditions. Make a traditional drink or food, and as you sip or nibble, know that your traditions live on within you. As you pay sacred homage to your traditional roots and ancestry, know that they enrich your life and community. Be sure to extinguish the candle.