finding purpose. That’s when the leader will say a prayer. Afterward, the older adults will prepare the libations as well as the unity cup or cups.
At this point, the person who’s responsible for lighting the candles will do so. The candles have to be lit in a particular order. The black candle is lit first followed by the first red candle to the left of it. Then, they would light the first green candle to the right of the black one followed by the second red candle. Finally, they’ll light the second green candle to the right of the black candle. This green candle represents your dedication to finding your purpose and setting goals that are in line with it.
RELATED: Is Kwanzaa Like Christmas?
After lighting the candles, that person will move on to discuss the principle of Nia in a way that encourages its understanding. They may also share a poem, song, story, or passage that exemplifies Nia and how it applies to their lives. Those in attendance may be given the opportunity to share how they currently practice the principle of Nia or will do so in the future.
When the discussion ends, you will share libations and then move on to gift-giving if you’ve chosen to do it daily. Once that is done, the candles will be extinguished to show that the day’s festivities have come to an end.
There are only two days left in the celebration of Kwanzaa but there are still some important principles to explore. You’ll see how everything is stacked to build a complete picture of how you’ll get to know yourself and your role in the positive development of those around you.