The Tradition Narratives

In the name of tradition

becomes a war cry after too many blood-soaked battles

are justification injected into community and curriculum

in compliance with assessment criteria

thrust upon unsuspecting students

drench dripping with implicit biases and deliberate partial disclosure

combining transparency deficient contexts

thrown in for good measure.

Since when is carbon copy replication over generations

a listed dictionary definition for tradition?

Said out loud is sacrilegious.

Shamed silences.

As if no room exists for expansion

and successive generations to leave hand and heart imprints on legacy.

How dare you

in the name of tradition

seize sanctity as right or reason for abhorrent practices via blind devotion

that lost its footing near sinister minds smiling at sanction

for greed, control, power, lust,

and profit thrown in for good measure

all in the name of tradition

mind you.

Greater attachment to ritual than respect is unworthy.

I would

in the name of common sense

question what hurts our children

devalues women

makes of men fools

profanes sacred earth

and maims our minds from capable to constricted.

Limping.

Leaves us weeping

and begs for death before those who proclaim to uphold life

in the name of tradition.

Rites of our own making

as Ancestors shake their heads wondering

What is wrong with you?

Thought to understanding makes power.

You were never meant to be so bound.

The weak forge better shackles.

The powerful create better traditions.

A heartfelt thank you for taking the time to read my poem. It is so very appreciated! You are more than welcome to read more of my work here.

If you would like to demonstrate support of me or any of the Vocal Creators, please like and share our work. It encourages us to keep doing what we love doing.

If you would like to write for Vocal, there's no time like the present. Here is your chance!

I welcome your questions, comments, and feedback @thedaniwriter