When I lived in Japan I absolutely loved the New Year’s Celebrations.  For three days, Japanese businesses close and a literal and figurative hush falls upon the country.

On New Year’s Eve, most families prefer to be at home.  Many are tired, having just finished a major cleaning spree so that they and and their homes are ready to start the New Year afresh.

Late in the the evening, all the temples begin to sound their bronze bells.  This tradition is called “joya no kane.” They peal 108 times because the Buddha said that humans have that many earthly desires. Tolling the bell helps people to rid themselves of these desires so that they can start the New Year in a pure state. 

Sounds easier that going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, doesn’t it?