Carnival and Traditions of Austerity

Mar’s Musing on Joy and Austerity

This week on Mar’s Musings I am jumping into exploring joy and austerities.

I had actually prepared a totally different idea, but this topic has been popping up so much recently in celebration of Carnival today and also the meaning behind it.

Traditionally carnival was celebrated before the abstinence of meat for 40 days of lent before Easter in the Catholic traditions.

Today is a time to let go and be free… to dress up, celebrate and dance in the streets. Really also a moment to embrace joy especially as let’s say another persona, or something you want to dress up as!
My son wanted to be a fireman last week at the school celebration, so we made him a cardboard hat together :)

To take us on the other side of the celebration, I started reflecting on the fact that many traditions have their moments of austerities - i.e. fasting or period of giving up something.. Ramadan, Yom Kippur, hindus fast during Navratri.. And many other traditions in one way or another embrace these practices.

I have done it several times in my life with meat, sugar and a common one of alcohol. I believe that these strengthen our character, and show us that we can eliminate something in our diets, and life with the intention of spiritual and physical cleansing of the mind, body and heart.

Many times when austerity is performed, the intention is to build character traits such as social conscience, self-control, patience and generosity - or whatever you wish to cultivate more in your life!

So not to put a downer on Carnival, on the contrary I invite this reflection of the potential strengthening of a part within yourself.

Is there something that has been calling you to strengthen a part of your character?

Some traits that you want to cultivate in your life?

Happy Carnival and celebration!

Love Mar Michelle