Traditions

(me and my sisters on Christmas morning. One of my favorite traditions!)

Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.

~Buddha

Traditions

Ah the word traditions! Every person has grown up with them or has created them and you my friend are no exception. Some traditions may make you feel all warm and cozy. Like getting into your pajamas when you get home from work or seeing your friends for dinner every friday night. These we cherish and want to continue on. Some traditions may not bring so much joy to you but out of obligation (and some guilt) you feel that you need to go through with them anyway. Well, maybe not so much anymore. Traditions are created out of love (or should be). If you are not feeling that then it's time to create a new one! You have spent so much time and energy making sure you are a part of these obligations yet you end up stressed, tired and even sick. What for? Is that something you need to be doing then? Changing it up might disappoint some people. They may not understand your needs right now. But that's okay. They are not living your life and they are not feeling the same burdens. It's time to put down the guilt once and for all and start living a life full of traditions that bring you a deeper sense of meaning and fulfillment. Embrace the ones you love and create new ones for the those that no longer bring you joy.