The memory box – a real treasure with plenty inside!
Today let us dive into the ritual of the «memory box», also known as the «time capsule», at welcome ceremonies. The detailed execution can vary in many ways. There are of course different rituals that can be integrated into ceremonies, and the «memory box» is only one of them.
Rituals are symbolic acts that take on a festive character within ceremonies and are performed consciously. The meaning of the ritual often continues to glow into the future.
The idea of the time capsule
At the welcome ceremony, the new arrival on earth receives their own memory box. All the guests present, usually the close family and the godparents, place their personal memento for the little treasure into the box one after another. The personal words that accompany the wishes and this ritual are peppered with humour, depth and wonderful emotion. On their 18th birthday, the by then young adult is to receive as a gift their very own treasure, full of memoirs from people who love them and who have accompanied them this far along the way.
A favourite ritual
I have already had the privilege of accompanying many young parents and families through a welcome ceremony, and the ritual of the memory box is an absolute highlight for me every single time, provided the parents decide to build it into the ceremony. Where an independent naming ceremony often also bridges three, sometimes even four generations, this ritual symbolises the cycle of life in the most beautiful way. The individual, personal objects and thoughts that the various «givers» come up with for their contribution are incredible.
Photos find their place, sometimes entire self-designed memory books. A technical snapshot in time when a «mobile phone from the year of the guest of honour» is added. The newspaper from the day of birth, personal objects from one’s own childhood. A message in a bottle (in the year of the pandemic, of course, in a Corona beer bottle) with excerpts of the messages showing how the expectant parents announced the happy news. Sometimes Goldvreneli coins find their way into the box too. «A safe currency even in hard times», as great-grandparents have described them.
A gift for the future
With the awareness that the older generation may no longer be there in almost two decades, when the box is opened again, I am moved anew every time by the personal letters with stories from their own lives, by the wishes for their descendants, but above all by the love for this little miracle. That is why the «memory box», and above all its meaning at welcome ceremonies, is one of my favourite rituals.
Good to know – tips and tricks
Inform your guests in advance what the idea and intention of the time capsule is, so that they have enough time to prepare. The box is often and gladly decorated by the parents or by the godparents themselves, which gives it a very personal touch. You will find materials for this in DIY stores, for example. If you would like to order it personalised, there are also many providers online. A web search for «personalised wooden box» already returns a great many results.
