It’s Not About the Bunny

Recently, I've seen the same “inspirational quote”—you know the ones on Facebook with those pretty images—several times in reference to Easter (because it’s just a few days away!) that reads, “It’s not about the bunny” and immediately thought, ”No, it isn’t, but why can’t we just stop already and have some simple fun?” 

Everyone knows what this Sunday (Easter) is all about—Jesus. But, what’s the big deal about going on an egg hunt?  And why try making people (who hunt eggs and eat chocolate bunnies) feel guilty by plastering comments that don’t really “say” what you really want to say?  “I believe in Jesus and you don’t; therefore, I think you’re a bad person.”  Come on.  What hypocrisy! 

Honestly, Easter is (of course!) about Jesus, but also an American tradition that's good ole simple fun.  In fact, many Christian-based churches (globally) hunt eggs after Sunday's service.  I’ve seen it many times with my own eyes.  And I’ve never heard the preacher preaching; “Now kids, it’s not about the bunny!” Seriously, can we all just lighten up a little and enjoy some community? 

Building community is important to our health and happiness and adds years to your life.  Many scientific studies have shown this to be true (you can find credible studies on the Internet).  Accepting others for who they are—as they are (believer or not)—builds compassion, connection, and unity.  On an energetic level, when we judge others it blocks energy in the third chakra, which is associated with your sense of self-worth and self-respect (you know better than to judge others so you end up judging yourself later ...or worry about the looming judgment awaiting you at the gates of Heaven) and the throat chakra takes a huge hit (because that's where the bad thought oozes out as words that hurt others).  Being in community (regardless of the reason) supports your root chakra which, in turn, nurtures your sense of belonging (which further strengthens your sense of worth (third chakra) and your sense of love at the heart chakra).  Bottom line, celebrating Easter—with everyone for every reason—is good for you!

And nowadays, with all the virtual “friendships” many of us hardly leave the house to commune in person at all.  Let’s embrace this time, not only to celebrate Jesus, but as a chance to mingle and laugh and enjoy each other’s uniqueness.  And be bold by expressing your Jesus-self—love everyone equally.  Heck, Jesus loves lepers, whores, drunks, the homeless, the rich, the impoverished, and even criminals.  Jesus loves everyone.  Jesus is about compassion, love, understanding; not judgment.  He would deny no one the chance to commune.  Quite the opposite.

Actually, if it takes an Easter bunny to bring people together, I’m pretty sure Jesus would approve.  He likes that sort of thing ….watching his children play nice in the sandbox.

Happy Easter and egg hunting to all my friends and family who believe in Jesus, who have other beliefs, or who have no beliefs at all.  Like Jesus, I love you all the same!