Beliefs that need burial

Anna and I were walking along a corridor on our way to get in to the car to go to the passport office to renew our passport. A friend was walking us to the car. A black cat crossed the corridor in front of us, at which our friend became restive and advised us against going to Chennai on that day. Spotting a black cat just before doing anything important is considered ominous. We could not change our mind as we had got this appointment after waiting for two months. Our friend was anxious and called us on phone a few times and rushed to see us on our return. We had a good journey and our interview with passport  office went on well. It is then this friend told us of many such traditional beliefs that are strictly followed by the old and young alike.

We noticed at the dog show last week, that the dogs are trained to put forth the right foreleg while being paraded before the judges, just as as men and women are expected to put the right leg first, every time one sets out on an important mission.

There are several traditional beliefs of similar nature which are passed on to us from mythology and ancient cultural practices. Not many would like to deviate from these as far as possible. A priest was insistent to hold a dedication prayer for an office till 9 am as time before that on that day was not considered an'opportune' time. So these beliefs can take different expressions and controls. 

Let us respect traditions if they promote values, human dignity and godly behaviour. If they are handed down traditions which bind us and restrict us, they need a 'farewell' from us. 

The watchful wyes of the good Lord are upon us. That is our surety and strength. We are called to be vigilant and responsible in our behaviour. That is good enough. Let not traditional beliefs which add burdens to us to preserve them control us or override reason and logic. It is good to do what is reasonable and sensible without 'fighting' the system to avoid  leaving somebody or other hurt. Make a quiet exit from what is binding us with no protest. This finds us freedom without offending any one in the process. This example will encourage others to be brave to be different. 

M.C.Mathew (text and photo)