However we celebrate this season, it’s likely rooted in traditions and rituals that originated generations ago. The word tradition comes from the Latin word “tradiare,” which means “to hand over, to transmit.” Drawing us into the experience of our lives, these throughlines to our roots helps us to feel connected to something larger than ourselves.
The traditions which inform our BRI community experience help to keep us rooted in the purpose and meaning of our work: to serve our communities and the causes which contribute to the common good. We use symbols and rituals as aids to keep us in this place. A red shawl, adopted as a totem for the fight for equality, was worn by Susan B. Anthony as she advocated for women’s rights at suffrage conventions, speaking engagements or congressional sessions. As a trademark, the red shawl made her instantly recognizable to reporters and the public. For us as a community the red shawl is a touchstone. Like Susan B. Anthony, our charge is to do the work to bridge the vast gap between where we are now and our visions of a world of love and justice.
Holding hands while we sway and sing The Little Ole Red Shawl helps us to remember that we’re not alone in this work, and we’re in a place of acceptance and of love.
Although rooted in the past, it is the work of each generation to keep it alive and active, to live and apply it, such that it is constantly revived.
For example, painting rocks–BRI Rocks is a more recent contribution to our living tradition. BRI Rocks serve as visual and tactile reminders of our connections to each other. A BRI Rock on your desk or on a shelf, seeing it daily, can bring you back to our time together each July.
Here’s to hoping this Holiday season is everything you hope it to be, and also to the happiest of new years.
PS – Watch this video to learn more about how BRI’s current brand connects with our origins.
Recent Comments