Defining rites of passage

[jay]

Given a debate in the hallways at work today with hopeforyou, over someone's celebration this evening ... I just don't see how celebrating the onset of an icky, unpleasant bodily function that causes half the population to be cranky and require chocolate and paper products one out of every four weeks is a rite of passage, other than as an affliction. Might as well design a ritual to celebrate, say, acne as the door to adolescence.

In this culture, IMO the things which most clearly delineate children from adults are gaining independent mobility and finances. So I think that a first paid outside job and gaining a driver's license are the true rites of passage in the US, both usually happening around age 15-16.

Comments

[cerulean-me.livejournal.com]

Getting one's first period is a big deal. I know that I woke up that day and felt different. Though there was drama (and thus trauma) to follow. My mom didn't welcome it, there is a great big, "Oh GREAT!" and it was disheartening. I was the first in my peer group to get, so I sort of became the person that all my friends and friends of friends came to for advice.

I believe that a ritual would have been something to make that transition easier. Also, it would have better armed me with good information to pass on, and and given me a solid background for support.

Lastly, I do have some worry that each cycle may bring pregnancy, as a result, my period is a welcomed visitor. Cramps really are no big thing. I am no more bitchy than usual. It's no more a mess than taking care of any other bodily function.

I deeply love this phase of life, which is different than where I was a child, and is different than where I will be as a crone. I can't change it- so why not embrace it?

[brian1789.livejournal.com]

Something more than ruined bedsheets? I can understand wanting to create something positive to counter the built-in negatives. Other than being glad of non-pregnancy :).