People have been corralling around fire since the earliest of human time. The warmth and glow of each other’s faces, the fascination of nature and contained destruction all grip people in this small but wonderful way to mingle. Bonfires can be done in so many ways but have had a unique place in our history as a sacrificial centerpiece. Without reviving the most grotesque versions of sacrifice, there is still a beautiful way to explore this tradition. 

Everyone has at least one story of regret they would like to put behind them and a simple life goal to put before them. A fire is a tremendous symbol of disposal and new beginnings, and this ritual concept plays on that fact. Gathering with friends after a few fire-blazed appetizers, create some symbolic tokens of sacrifice. Prepare some papercrafts or small kindling for disposal, a decorated t-shirt, or douse pinecones in colorants that will turn the flames into different colors. Gather everyone around the fire and take turns sharing about the one great regret you would like to cast into the fire, and the one simple life goal to set your sights on in the coming future. Let every person share their piece and enjoy the burgeoning warmth of the flame and conversation. Carry the night on by sharing stories, playing creative games, or waxing philosophically until the embers fade. Be safe, but enjoy the glow of the fire and the pleasure of an age-old tradition.