As an example we will use a special-name adoption ritual to accomplish the formalization of taking on a nickname as a primary use name. To begin, set aside the time and place for your rite in which you will not be disturbed by visitors or phone calls. The time necessary will depend entirely on the complexity of design of the ritual; this example will be a very quick process, lasting only a few minutes. Prepare all the materials needed with a clear sense of purpose and intention. You may want to incorporate your new altar, in which case do all of the necessary work for that process also. Next, arrange any materials you will be incorporating into easily accessible areas, within reach throughout your ritual. You are now ready to begin.

Start strong by creating a noise that is not part of your normal daily routine. Pretend to be a trumpet fanfare, "Da da dad um, Ta da da dad a dum." Say in a strong voice, "Hear now all, this rite of naming," or some such declaration. Stand upright in the center of the area you have chosen and turn around slowly to the left in a full circle. Breathe out all of your breath. Take a deep breath and vocalize again, something like, "I have been known by the name              for all of the time that this name held power for me. I am now releasing that name into the winds of time, and into the fires that consume, I allow the waters of renewal to cleanse me, and I now stand upon this ground renewed and ready to accept my new name. From this moment forward I am            , and I shall be called that and known as              until such time as I choose otherwise.” Turn a full circle around to the right. Take a deep breath in which you visualize all of the virtues that you will possess and embody being drawn into you as you fill yourself with air. Hold your breath and think on the responsibilities you will shoulder as you grow into your new name. Then exhale and give a victory shout! If there are others present, each of them can say your new name back to you as they look into your eyes. Embrace, and say something like "It is done, may it be for the greatest good."

This naming ceremony is one example of a modern ritual which can be incorporated into your personal spirituality. A name that you call yourself is a symbol of your identity. Changing that name is a form of spiritual renewal.

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