Evolution of festive bonding understandable
The increased bookings for flights out of Singapore for this Lunar New Year set me thinking about the nature and future direction of traditions.
The peg in the door forces it to open slightly. In time, the door is forced open wider and out go the traditions, tentatively one, followed by another and then a deluge.
Conservatives observe this phenomenon in amusement, then with some worry and, finally, trepidation, alarmed that customs promoting familial togetherness, conviviality and connectivity are deemed trivial, or even unworthy of continuance or promotion, by some.
To non-traditionalists, having fun and bonding with family overseas, during a very long weekend coinciding with an important tradition, supplant adherence to tradition.
Others regret that the ennui that comes with so-called repetitive, meaningless or time-wasting activities associated with traditions will be reinforced and deepened as the rising generation take their cue from their elders in discharging their duties perfunctorily.
They caution that this would thin out generational bonds, and a time would come when no tradition is considered useful or significant enough for future generations to make that conscious effort to reach out to family and friends for.
They contend it is worthwhile to keep alive and even strengthen some beliefs and customs that promote the links that are foundational to filial piety, consideration for loved ones, compassion for the elderly, extra-familial links, et cetera.
I empathise with those who endorse a mindset change, think out of the box, favour discarding outmoded customs or find it irksome and artificial to attend tradition-centred festivities out of coercion or obligation.
The original concepts and reasons for some traditions are shrouded in myth, superstition or the like. Would those who are logical and realistic be readily receptive to jettisoning weird and unreasonable customs?
