“Today, I want to bring up a topic to see how many of you resonate with these thoughts, and how many might hold a different perspective.
Tradition’—we have been hearing this word since childhood, whether from our grandparents or different members of our families.
Tradition connects us to our roots, whether through festivals or other forms. It introduces us to our culture and makes us feel proud of being born into it. These are invisible threads that may not be seen, but they keep us bound to one another. Every community or country has its own traditions, which offer a unique experience of connection when we meet others. And yes, they are also the culmination of our ancestors’ experiences, giving us a sense of belonging even in our fast-paced modern lives.
But some traditions demand change as our lives evolve. If we do not adapt, these very traditions can become obstacles to our progress.
Especially in our middle-class society, the majority of traditions are tied to women or girls, often becoming chains for them. They stand like walls, obstructing their dreams, their flight, and their independence. Such traditions must change with time so that they do not hold back the two most vital segments of our society—women, and the youth of today, regardless of their gender. These traditions restrict both groups and strip away their freedom.
Similarly, when a young person—be it a boy or a girl—shares something with their family that doesn’t align with these traditions, that moment of dialogue is no longer just an opinion. It becomes a test of the social standards we have upheld for years under the guise of ‘beauty’ or ‘decency.’
Ultimately, tradition does not mean blindly carrying old lines; it means preserving the values that teach us humanity. Just as the foundation of an old house remains the same, but we renovate its interior to suit our modern needs, we need a similar balance in our lives. When we present our views to our families, it should not be seen as a rebellion, but as the beginning of a ‘new bridge.’ A bridge that connects the respect for tradition with the freedom of modernity. We need to understand that tradition and progress are not antagonists, but rather two wheels of the same carriage.
Do you agree that we need to bring changes to our traditions according to the current era, so they do not hinder our progress or become a burden on those carrying them?
Please share your thoughts with me, so I know if our perspectives align or if there is more to explore.
Goodbye for now, my friends.”
Ashini 