By Oddly Robbie

My perspective as an autistic individual brings a unique lens to the discussion of rituals. For some of us, the world’s customs can be overwhelming, even painful. The sensory overload of a crowded celebration or the forced small talk of a formal dinner can be truly distressing. But this neurodivergent viewpoint is valuable. It reminds us that not everyone experiences rituals in the same way and that inclusivity means creating spaces where all feel welcome.

Rituals as Tools for Change

We have the power to shape our rituals, to make them more meaningful and inclusive. This might involve creating new traditions that celebrate diversity or adapting existing ones to be more accessible and accommodating. By being mindful and intentional, we can use our rituals as tools for positive change, creating a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.

Reflecting on this, I recall a moment from my journal on May 20, 2024, where I expressed frustration over society’s narrow definitions of “normal.” It’s disheartening to see so much effort and funding dedicated to making us fit a “normal” that doesn’t even consider our perspectives. This effort is akin to forcing a square peg into a round hole—frustrating and pointless. Instead of attempting to change who we are, why not develop environments and tools that help us thrive?

The Rituals of Humanity: A Dance of Joy and Reflection

Have you ever noticed how much of our daily energy goes into customs? As someone who experiences the world through the lens of autism, I often find myself questioning these rituals. Why must we sit on a hard chair for an hour until everyone finishes their meal? Or engage in sobremesas, those extended post-meal conversations in Argentina, which can feel like an eternity to someone like me. Yet, I’ve come to realize that these customs are more than just routines—they’re the lifeblood of our social fabric.

The Beauty in Our Rituals

Let’s start with the good stuff. Humans are delightfully ritualistic creatures. We spend about 50% of our energy on customs, whether it’s holiday traditions, family dinners, or casual greetings. For many, these rituals bring immense fulfillment and happiness. They provide structure, create shared memories, and offer a sense of belonging. It’s a lovely thing, really, to see how our ritualistic nature brings out the best in us, making us the wonderfully social animals we are.

The Shadows of Tradition

But not all customs are sunshine and rainbows. Some traditions, like the bull run in Bogota, Colombia, have been put on hold because they don’t align with modern values of kindness and compassion. It’s a reminder that while customs can bring us together, they can also perpetuate harm or division. Think of traditions that promote malice or exclusion—those are the ones we need to scrutinize and, perhaps, evolve beyond.

Finding Balance

So, where does that leave us? It’s about balance. Embracing the rituals that foster joy, connection, and kindness, while being brave enough to question and change the ones that don’t. It’s a journey of reflection, understanding that our customs define us, but they don’t have to confine us.

In the end, our rituals are like a dance—sometimes beautiful, sometimes awkward, but always a part of what makes us uniquely human. Let’s celebrate the good, rethink the bad, and keep dancing towards a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Drawing from Personal Experiences

In my global jaunt, from the disciplined rigor of Japanese customs to the passionate traditions of Argentina, I’ve learned that while cultural rituals can be overwhelming, they also offer a rich tapestry of experiences. As I adapt these traditions to my own needs, sitting at my Japanese kotatsu table while sipping Argentine yerba mate tea, I realize the power of rituals to bridge our differences and bring us together.

So here’s to the rituals that define us, challenge us, and ultimately bring us closer. Let’s embrace the good, rethink the bad, and create a world where everyone can dance their unique dance.