We sat around a fire and listened to the wisdom of our elders. I found that much of what was said revolved around the obscure and word tradition, often avoided in this part of the world.

What is tradition? It sounds like an important ingredient to a sense of belonging. Is not the label creature of habit a synonym of tradition? Did you watch The Accountant? That guy was full tilt methodical. It is the anthesis of Silicon Valley; sure you may program with exacting methodology and yet the goal is to implement change, to disrupt the status quo.

Silicon Valley aside, we seem to be drawn to repetition. With athletics and especially folks focused on becoming super fit, we have to zoom out to find the repetition: consistent programming changes is repetition. What about those poor souls with anger management issues?

I disagree it is about us being sheep or looking for a leader though. Besides, is not eating or breathing a tradition? Why are they segregated from belief and practice? Don’t forget that those traditions provide answers to the tough questions.

To state the obvious, there are plenty of unhelpful traditions. What about the funny truth that children of alcoholics are more likely to be alcoholics? Or abused kids. Or jerks. Military families. I guess I’m going to be a lawyer or doctor. Be another Catatonic State alumni. Or most anything.

The problem is tradition requires commitment and woah watch out before signing the dotted line. Take being a hard core rock star, and especially for drummers: typically you just have to die before 30. Isn’t the right age 27 actually? Following through is not for everyone.

Living as a westerner and and faithful to indigenous practices appears incongruous. Even everyone’s favorite superhero Mr. Positive agrees there are definite conflicts.

The words of the Teyuna and the words of Frank are identical: we must give if we take; all things have spirits and are to be respected, invited and, best case, assisting; their perspective on astral planes, aliens and why we are here; and that while ceremonies may differ, what they honor is the same.

By the way you better be having fun because otherwise you’re missing the point and *everything* can bring joy. That’s a tradition I can follow baby!!!