FROM SHELL TO SHELL

            

As we were wrapping up spring break last weekend, both our Jewish and Christian friends were observing important holy days. 

For Jews, the Passover celebration began at sundown on March 27^th and concluded on April 3^rd. During these days, an important and symbolic Passover meal takes place, called a seder, blessings and prayers are offered, fun-filled games are played, and the exodus from slavery in Egypt is commemorated. Through it all, our Jewish friends re-member and embrace the freedom offered by G-d in the midst of struggle. 

Meanwhile, many Christians* observed Good Friday on April 2^nd, gathering for services to re-member the death of Jesus of Nazareth, who they believe to be God in the flesh. This death is often related to the death of sin, or the belief that Jesus bears and buries the sins of humankind into the tomb. As such, a similar freedom is offered on the cross. Then, on Easter Sunday, April 4^th, believers gather again to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.

In both sacred stories, people of each tradition hold fast to the newness of life. From oppression to freedom, one season to the next, the valley to the mountaintop, a shift in identity, death to rebirth.  The faithful move from what once was to what now is, a new leg in the journey, a fresh start, a different perspective.

In addition to the variety of descriptions that are out there to describe these transitions, many images are also offered to help relate. In the Christian tradition, one particular image is often used to capture death and resurrection: the caterpillar’s journey to becoming a butterfly. And, while this image holds resonance with me, this year I have been drawn to a different one. 

Instead, the journey of a hermit crab rings true. 

This is, in part, due to some riveting television binged by my children. They are big fans of Wild Kratts, an animated PBS Kids show that educates and sheds awareness to nature and the amazing creatures that inhabit the wild. The first episode from season three is titled, “The Hermit Crab Shell Exchange.” In it, they follow said crabs, who exchange shells as they grow and develop. One smaller shell is exchanged for a larger one that now suits, then a larger one, and so on. Not only that, the shells are not confined to a certain shape or color – but seem to transform the hermit with each new dwelling.

So it is when we move from one stage of life to the next; when one season ends and a new begins. Not only does transformation occur, but growth, development, and a new sense of identity. And, this process happens over and over again, in the course of any lifetime. 

Passover and the Easter Season always occur during the springtime, another seasonal reminder that new life is bursting forth. May we come to let go of whatever old shell we are holding onto, and have the courage to inhabit the new life that is ahead.