Do you like hoopla and fooferaw?

We are soon to see an important ceremony, as Obama is elected. A lot of people are really interested in being there or seeing it. But there are other moments of celebration in our lives: birthdays, graduations, advances in various skills (aikido, piano, etc).

Some people seem to think these things are meaningless and stupid. It’s what you actually do that counts, not the special day. Others seem to find it very meaningful and moving, and they enjoy the celebrations.

What about you? What does it do for you? How do you feel about it? Do you have any insight into why you feel the way you do?