Tradition

Tradition however is also used as an excuse to preserve privilege; which highlights the greatest flaw of tradition: it cannot justify itself. Tradition employed for it’s own sake is only to do so because it was always done so; ignorant of refinement, ignorant of progress, ignorant of learning and development. If anything, traditions should be challenged each time they are observed to ensure that they still bring meaning and benefit to our lives — however ephemeral or insubstantial that benefit may seem. David Dennis

This is one reason I sometimes cringe when I hear some people use the word tradition while doing something that excludes a person or a group of people. I see how the word "tradition" is used to justify religious, sexual and racial bigotry.

Do not believe in anything ...

Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it. Buddha via Ted Gonder at Svbtle

Think for yourself.