Counselor's Corner: Symbols inspire us

Fred Cavaiani

We live surrounded by symbols. The uniform of a soldier or a sailor symbolizes dedication to our country. The uniform of a police officer signifies safety and protection. Ball players wear uniforms to show us the city in which their team resides and of course the team for which they play. In the past, religious men and women wore garments that signified the religious order to which they belonged. It also symbolized a sense of dedication and prayer. Many young men and women joined these groups because they saw an external symbol that was inspiring and pointed toward a higher dedication.

The courtroom is a symbol of dedication to justice. Judges wear robes that signify authority and integrity. Lawyers consistently wear dress suits or dresses that portray a sense of professionalism and dedication to both the court and their clients. Many cities have historical statues that symbolize an important person or accomplishment.

We are surrounded by symbols. When we disregard the importance of symbols in our lives we lose a deeper sense of vision and dedication. Groups that minimize symbols do not gain many followers.
Symbols such as uniforms, religious habits, statues, historical monuments point to something deeper in life. The symbols are not there simply for the individual person or city or group. The symbols are there to inspire, create memories and express a sense of dedication for the whole world. I have always been inspired by the steadfastness of courtrooms, judges and attorneys. They have a great respect for symbols and can teach all of us something about appreciating the importance of symbols.

Imagine what would happen if our Armed Forces did not wear uniforms. What would it be like if all sports teams dressed however they felt? Imagine a Church Service or Mass with no symbols of a sanctuary, altar, particular garment for the minister or priest. Imagine a courtroom where the Judge wore casual, civilian clothes or the lawyers showed up in t shirts and short pants. Think about a police force with no particular uniform. If this happened I think we would see a quick decrease of soldiers, sailors, judges, lawyers, sports teams, and a lack of attendance in churches.

We live our lives immersed in symbols. Symbols can become outdated but we still need the symbols. An old stadium can become outdated but a new stadium can become a new symbol. Uniforms and religious dress can be modernized but they still have to symbolize something. If they do not, a vacuum is created which diminishes the city, culture, nation and religious dedication.

In the midst of a changing culture symbols will remain. When a symbol is lost we need to either regain it or replace it with another symbol. Every moment of the day we can look around us and see a symbol.
Treasure the symbols among us. Respect them. Let these symbols inspire you to something higher and deeper.

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Fred Cavaiani is a licensed marriage counselor and psychologist with a private practice in Troy. He can be reached at (248)362-3340. His e-mail address is: Fredcavi@yahoo.com and his website is fredthecounselor.com.