So long as there are chimneys there will have to be cleaning, so that creosote does not build up in them and present a fire hazard. These days, chimney cleaning is done with more modern tools and rarely does a sweep have to venture inside one — which is a good thing considering the cancer rates of chimney sweeps in the old days. The by-products of fire can be very dangerous. Similarly, the by-products of such fiery emotions as rage and smouldering resentments can build up a good deal of psychic creosote in the house as well, and the chimney cleaning is as good a time as any to remove such dangerous substances. As you work with brushes and (perhaps) vacuum cleaner, say the following prayer:

Mother Holda so quick with the broom,

Sharp eyes that catch all sloth and sulking,

Sweep us clean of all our resentments,

Sweep us clean of all our wrath,

Let the warmth of the hearth glow unencumbered

That we may all be family again.