Tradition

     If it's not broke, don't fix it; however, we may be too close to realize when something is broken.  It may not be broken for us but may be broken for others or at least need some analysis and improvement.  It may have lost its usefulness or may even be detrimental for our goal.  In the extreme, it may need to be tossed out.  Tradition is a set of customs or beliefs handed down from generation to generation.
     Traditions obviously have advantages.  They seemed to have worked in the past, and many people feel they will continue to work in the future.  By keeping a tradition, we are honoring our elders, believing that what they have done should be upheld and repeated.  We become part of history and part of a group experiencing emotional attachment and nostalgia. Some people even design new activities that they hope their children and grandchildren will continue into the future to help them remember and honor their elders.
     Some people would rather stick with traditions since they have stood the test of time.  Altering or stopping traditions can seem risky.  Not altering traditions when they need it is also risky.  Pressure to continue traditions just to please others is unfair.  Repeating traditions may give honor to elders but may show a lack of confidence in newer thinking.  We shouldn't prefer the old at the expense of trying something new.
      Analyze why you do what you do.  Resist the pressures of family, society, and religion when you feel that their traditions are overwhelming you or not satisfying your needs.  Your beliefs and opinions are just as important and valid as those designed in the past.  We need to understand the advantages and disadvantages of tradition.