Who hasn’t visited the beach and picked up a special sea shell? Or retrieved a little piece of petrified wood while walking among those rare places where they are available? I even know someone who can’t pass up a shoe store before adding another addition to her “shoe altar!” LOL!

Whatever the case, we retrieve things along life's path because we feel connected to them and to the special feelings we encountered while there.

In these “interesting times” we find ourselves in, though, with wars and revolutions and the seeming breakdown of so many things we once took for granted, it may be a good time to consider making a stronger connection with your own concept of the sacred. And one way of doing that is to make an altar.

(Left: A photo of part of my altar as it appeared a few years ago in my shop. It's a lot different now because I moved the shop to a smaller space and don't have as much room as I did then. Another reason why it has changed is because an altar changes over time, just like we do. When you keep it updated, you are reflecting your spiritual progress in the current symbols you choose.)

If you’re lucky enough to own property, perhaps you can locate a quiet outside nook for your altar. But even if you inhabit a one-room apartment, there is always space for a collection of symbols you consider sacred. Put them all together in or on a shelf, a drawer, on top of the fridge, anywhere they can remain undisturbed except by you. If possible, add a candle among the collection that you can light while contemplating the peace and sense of identity your altar offers. In the right place, your altar can be a wonderful source of comfort, and it will definitely aid you in setting your intention during meditation, ceremony or even while relaxing.

Go ahead and make an altar and then experiment with it a little. Bring out those special things you keep hidden away and move them into the light on your altar. Make something with your hands that reflects your heart, and place it on your altar. Try adding or taking away various items until you feel a sense of peace deep inside.That's a sure sign that your altar is functioning perfectly.

This idea doesn’t mean you will be indulging your “alter” ego, but rather your genuine spiritual outlook and connection with All That Is via your altar. In short, it reflects the “real” you!

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I've begun making a series of small sculptures called "Hods" for use in holding sacred offerings on altars. Here's one made from lightning-struck wood, the same wood I use in making drums. The part that holds the offering is made from a hickory nut shell. ( You can see more Hods here. ) Try making one yourself— it is a spiritual journey all in its own!