You will need
Sheets of paper
Envelopes
Pencils and Pens
Metal container
Matches/lighter
1 shoe box or similar container

Invite everyone to write down all the disappointments they would like to ‘leave behind’ in 2005. This can everything from problems at work to relationships, or anything inbetween. Once they have written them down, fold the paper and place it in the metal container with everyone else’s.

Have everyone gather around the container and hold hands. The host invites everyone to “say goodbye to last year’s disappointments” and then lights the papers. As they burn invite your guests to silently give thanks for the past year.

After everyone has participated in the burning of their disappointments, invite them to take another piece of paper and an envelope. Ask them to write down just a couple of things that they are hoping for in their lives in the coming year. Once they have written their ‘dreams’ down have them seal it in an envelope.

Gather all the envelopes and put them in the shoe box. Seal the box and put it somewhere safe for a year. Then invite your guests back for New Year’s Eve 2006 when the box will be opened and their dreams will be revealed and discussed.

Finish the ritual with some kind of prayer or blessing.