Rethinking Tradition
Someone mentioned to me just the other day that to him traditions sometimes seem like more of a burden than delight.
Boy did that ring true for me! There are times I just don’t feel like carrying on with this or that tradition in the usual (read: expected) way.
In manifesting its important to reach for the better feeling. So if participating in a tradition makes you feel yucky then just don’t do it, right?
Ah but what if not participating also makes you feel yucky? Then what?
For me what really helps is examining the tradition itself and thinking about how it got started and why I ever participated in the first place. From this perception I’ve often come to a new appreciation of tradition, allowing myself to fully participate in a way that’s fun and meaningful to me.
And sometimes, with this new understanding I’m able to see that the tradition doesn’t fit me anymore so I can let it go without guilt or any yucky feelings.
So think about those dusty, boring traditions of yours. Is there something you’ve forgotten about their roots that could bring new meaning for you? Is there a different way to honor them that’s more fun and better reflects who you are? Or truly – is it time to chuck them all together?
3 comments
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When my husband and I first met, I felt that his family traditions were being thrust upon me. I wasn’t especially happy about it, because I didn’t get along well with his family and they are very social where neither of us particularly likes to spend time around large groups of people.
We’ve been together for six Christmases now and are beginning to form our own traditions. While we usually spend the day with my family (out of state), we are finding ways to make the day ours instead of belonging to my parents.
I think tha the important thing is to establish traditions that are meaningful to you. While I consider myself a very “traditional” person, I have had to constantly rework what that means to me as I build to a place where I am happy and my marriage is united. We really are getting back what we’re sending out into the world through our change in attitude. It’s amazing how well it works, whether you believe it does or not.
It is also possible to enjoy the traditions because you have decided that you are going to. I think this is often overlooked :)
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Very good points Rebecca, It really is about finding your own space in this world and doing what works best for you.
And I love the last part too…Decide then enjoy :)
Have a great day!
Maria
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