What's your tradition?

Colleagues,

MVP: Traditions have origins, and traditions change.
Three pictures:

• My mom’s Christmas tree​

• Pam and I’s Christmas tree​

• Mara’s (my daughter) Christmas tree

There are lots of similarities because things like Christmas trees are heavily influenced by traditions. Not just the traditions of the family members who preceded us, but also the traditions of our friends, neighbors, and the broader society.
 
There are also some differences between the trees. Traditions are not replicated, they are renewed, and in the process of renewal, some things change.
 
Growing up, the ornaments on mom’s tree were almost all glass. When Pam and I set up our first tree, we had very little money. We bought a box of ultra-cheap wooden ornaments from Odd Lots (now Big Lots). To this day, our trees include wooden ornaments.
 
Mara’s tree is loaded with sequined ornaments, given to her and her partner, Ranford, by Ranford’s grandmother. 
 
Maybe the traditions don’t actually change. Maybe they just look different? Or maybe both can happen.
 
Use this season to reflect on traditions. The personal ones you hold during the holidays, but also the ones that live in your organization.
 
Think about why and how these things came to be, and what purpose they fulfill. And then ask if they are still fulfilling that purpose. If so, then hold them tightly. If not…
 
Today’s intention: Be aware of what you do during this season and why you do it.

Cheers!

Frederick