Rituals & Traditions

Those of you who know me, either in person or through these weekly musings, have heard me rail against the constraints of societal norms. Within that, you have probably noticed that I regularly express my contempt for tradition, ritual, and routine.

This morning while I was lying on the bedroom floor, talking myself through daily yoga poses and stretches, I realized, with some clarity, that I willingly participate in some routine activities every single day without chafing against them.  And, in most cases, those rituals make my life measurably better.   

What then is the difference?  Why do some push all my buttons, while others are appreciated habits?  This thought process, of course, sent me down another rabbit hole, a place I visit quite often while on the yoga mat in various, adapted poses. Today, while laying in the final backstretch, waiting to hear the popping sound that indicates that my hips have achieved (semi) alignment, the words "expectation" and "obligation" dropped into my head simultaneously.   That one collective concept is, of course, the key.  

When I feel pushed and coerced into doing something, simply because it is tradition, I will automatically rebel.  In my mind, there doesn't need to be any other logical reason.  For some, my rebellion over seemingly inconsequential stuff has the appearance of pure obstinacy or ridiculous lines drawn in the sand.  

However, it makes utter sense when you consider that inconsistency, along with contradiction and hypocrisy, is the combination of traits that rests second on my list of pet peeves.

Why would I blindly accept (and celebrate) the ritualistic traditions that are part of my culture when my daily reality runs counter to societal norms, including the mission of providing a non-coercive educational environment and programming for any child who needs us?  Not only that, but I also (some would say foolishly) trust that those kids are intrinsically motivated to seek out everything they need to grow and learn.

This internal conversation all leads, quite handily, to the reason this particular warren of thoughts was grappling for release from my subconscious this morning.

It is once again the time of year that we reach out to you for financial assistance. Yes, asking for your contribution has become an annual tradition. However, the last thing I want is for you to feel obligated to donate. Just as I am confident in our student's abilities to take on whatever challenges they encounter, I trust that the folks with whom our message resonates, and are able, will support us financially.

That, indeed, was the case for an incredibly generous donor who recently sent an unsolicited check for $5000.00.  There are no words for the emotions that swirled when I opened that envelope. Nor for the short message I received a few days later in response to my note of thanks, stating that he wanted to acknowledge his appreciation of our work, especially during these challenging times.  

I am deeply grateful for every dollar and for every kind word of support that recognizes our commitment to honoring our promise to our community. Thank you!

* Contribute an online donation here, or send a check to Deep Root Center, 48 Riverside Dr., Canton, NY 13617.

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DRC News

It has been brought to the DRC staff's attention that there is a shortage of afternoon options for families in Canton. We are committed to opening this program, (with a full Covid-19-19 Safety Plan in place) when there are enough interested families to make it viable.

Deep Root Center's Exploration Station Services extend our unique brand to children in the community who attend public or private schools.

DRC provides a physically and emotionally safe space for children, filled with resources and materials, where they are encouraged to explore their interests freely, without coercion. The DRC Afternoon Program is designed to offer opportunities for hands-on exploration, creativity, and fun that children crave.

Please get in touch if you are looking for an afternoon program for your family.