A recent news article from the BBC chronicled a reporter who visited India for the world’s biggest election. Although the election itself was interesting, a religious festival underway on the banks of the Ganges River captivated him.
The festival included the sounding of conch shells and bells and the burning of incense. After rhythmic chanting, thousand-candle lamps were lit. On the Ganges itself, candles in small bowls were launched into the night.
The reporter was stunned with the beauty and significance of this ancient ritual witnessed by thousands.
Trouble is: the entire festival had been recently invented to increase tourism!
Merriam-Webster defines tradition as “a way of thinking, behaving, or doing something that has been used by the people in a particular group, family, society, etc., for a long time.” It is our traditions that help to define us as a group. It is our traditions that illustrate the connections between us. It also is our traditions that create the sense of belonging to something bigger than our individual selves.
Does it matter whether the traditions are ancient or sacred?
I don’t think it does. We all want to be part of something. Most of us desire the connections that come with a family, or social grouping. Perhaps it is just fine for us to develop our own traditions.
I can see why the reporter was dismayed. He felt that the festival had been misrepresented. But we can create traditions in our own families and within our friendships of the most wonderful kind. Modern traditions can help us:
- Remember a loved one
- Celebrate a particular event
- Cherish a talent or hobby
- Pass along something of value or meaning to our friends or children
- Keep a recipe, a plant, a craft or a design alive
Let us not underestimate the power of a tradition to bring us together, regardless of the age of the tradition or its provenance. Some of the best traditions of my family were entirely invented and quite heartwarming. I still remember being presented with my Grandmother’s “special recipes.” Are they that special? They are to me!
Our traditions hold us together, deepen our intimacy and create a shared sense of belonging. Perhaps it’s time to develop a tradition in your own family or circle of friends. Is there something you’d like to share or celebrate? Would you like to have a special time or unique way of illustrating the loving connections in your life?
Get creative with that next invented tradition!