Tradition!

Yesterday marked the beginning of Lent. The holiest season of the Christian calendar. So, what pops into my head? Fiddler on the Roof. That’s right, a Jewish musical with Tevya singing that catchy tune, “Tradition”.

Lent is a season of tradition. One of sacrifice, penance, reflection, preparation. A Catholic myself, I’m quite versed in the tradition of giving something up for Lent. I gave up coffee once. It didn’t go well. I don’t think the idea behind self denial was to make everyone else’s life miserable, so I won’t be doing that again. You’re welcome.

There is something beautiful about traditions. Everyone has them. Some are steeped in religion, others may be societal. Many have family connections, a few may be personal, held only by us. However they are formed, the reasons are pretty much the same. Traditions bring us comfort. They give us a sense of belonging, help us reconnect, and bring us together. Traditions, especially religious ones, reinforce values. They are a pathway to creating lasting memories. No matter what traditions we hold, or how we celebrate them, they bring to us a place where we can stop, breathe, and reflect.

Several years ago, after the coffee fiasco, I changed my Lenten tradition. Instead of giving something up for Lent, except for meat…I mentioned I’m Catholic, right? We don’t eat meat on Fridays during Lent. It’s not done. It’s “tradition”…instead, I decided to do something. To change something about myself that was less than it should be. Life is a journey full of distractions.

For me Lent has become a 40 day spiritual course correction.  What was once a tradition of dread is now a tradition of opportunity. An opportunity to get a stronger grip on being the person I’m suppose to be. I’m not always successful about making a lasting change, but sometimes I do. And if not…if you catch me during those 40 days of Lent, well it’s then I’m at my best self. It’s my tradition.