Meaning of life

Ever since early humans developed community life, rituals - births, rites of passage, marriage and bereavement - have built tribes and clans. Rituals help us navigate change, create meaning and strengthen community. They stop people from feeling isolated, disconnected and less able to cope with life's major transitions.

In a refreshing look, Bruce Feiler in his book 'A Time to Gather: How Ritual Created the World - and How It Can Save Us', says that we are amid a ritual renaissance that is pushing back against apathy, loneliness and digital saturation. Boomers to Gen Z are reimagining collective rituals at a remarkable pace, inventing fresh ways to gather around life, love, health and family - and forging thriving communities in the process.

Spurred by the physical separation of Covid, digital closeness and affordability, some rituals have evolved, almost unnoticed, such as family WhatsApp groups sharing 'Good Morning' messages daily, Wordle/Nerdle scores, weekly group video calls among siblings/ parents, birthday wishes, and memorial pages on bereavement.


Rituals turn fear into hope. An example is when there comes a time when a deep question arises - with whom will I share my life? At such a juncture, dating becomes an important modern ritual. A first date may create the possibility of a relationship. Repeated dates build a shared story. And, soon, couples develop their own private rituals and traditions. In the process, each participant becomes more vulnerable, and understanding of love and commitment evolves.