“Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes, our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead.” This quote by G.K. Chesterton made me think.
From the original meaning of the word, traditions (“trans” = across and “dare” = to give) carry over knowledge, wisdom, action or belief. Like the word “custom” it was used long before most of humanity was able to read or write.
In a time when you couldn’t ask people to read and write instructions, traditions were certainly a very good way to pass on knowledge and guidance.
However, today, we have a flood of written information, instructions and thousands of people on social media who tell us what to do, when to do it – and sometimes also why to do it.
Our world has become more complicated as we are living in a diverse world with diverse traditions that are sometimes competing with one another.
Still, traditions provide a sense of safety and community. Even though these traditions might be based on knowledge that is long due for an overhaul. People know what to expect when they are in a community where all follow the same traditions. It takes empathy to be sensitive to traditions, to accept that they might be sacred for some people.
For generations, the same traditions have been followed and accepted: traditions range from singing National Anthems before a sports competition between teams from different countries or taking off one’s shoes before stepping on hallowed ground, up to inviting staff to a barbecue once a year – or even voting for the same political party every time.
There are some traditions that have become like rituals that don’t cause harm to anyone, but other traditions that should invite us to think and to discern if they are still relevant or if they might even be counter-productive to what they were meant to be.
A staff barbecue might be a great initiative if all staff members like barbecues, like meat – and can eat the same kind of meals. However, if you have staff of diverse backgrounds, you might exclude people from enjoying the celebration if they don’t eat meat or don’t drink alcohol for religious or personal reasons. In a diverse team, it might be good to look for some adaptations in order to reach the goal of having everyone enjoying the celebration.
Voting is even more challenging and can have a huge impact on the whole of society. Times are changing, new politicians come with new ideas that might ultimately change political parties. In a democracy, it is vital to be well informed (and not just from one source) before going to the polls.
Traditions can make life easier, but they are not an invitation to be complacent.
Reviewing traditions regularly is important. They help us to understand our ancestors and to learn from their experiences.
The more we know about our traditions, the more we will learn about the reasons why they were introduced in the first place. Only when we understand the why, will we understand where we need to adapt in order to fulfil their purpose.
BM
