This post spoke to me on a number of levels. During my working years at church, I enjoyed change because change often meant new and improved. When considering canceling a longstanding church tradition, I wanted to be convinced it still held valuable purpose for many, rather than being a nostalgic preference for some.
Now that I'm retired, I view traditions with nostalgia of my own. Often losing traditions at this stage of my life simply comes with loss and not so much improvement. While I still enjoy change (new and improved), I more fully understand the grief of those who missed their favorite canceled tradition. That's not to say we were wrong with the decisions we made in canceling, but I regret not being a better listener and wish I had responded with more understanding and compassion.
This post spoke to me on a number of levels. During my working years at church, I enjoyed change because change often meant new and improved. When considering canceling a longstanding church tradition, I wanted to be convinced it still held valuable purpose for many, rather than being a nostalgic preference for some.
Now that I'm retired, I view traditions with nostalgia of my own. Often losing traditions at this stage of my life simply comes with loss and not so much improvement. While I still enjoy change (new and improved), I more fully understand the grief of those who missed their favorite canceled tradition. That's not to say we were wrong with the decisions we made in canceling, but I regret not being a better listener and wish I had responded with more understanding and compassion.
Thanks, Debbie. I think that is right - I don't question the decisions we made. But I understand tradition a little better.