Don't know if you have heard about the big story out of Auburn University in Alabama. A crazed University of Alabama fan -- Auburn's long-time rival -- poisoned two 130-year old oak trees at Toomer's Corner. This case has received some nationwide attention and has been all over the news in the southeastern part of the country.
We're told that the significance of these giant oaks pertains to Auburn tradition. After each significant athletic team victory, students and fans descend on Toomer's Corner to throw toilet paper (i.e., rolling) into the branches of the big trees. Though efforts are being made to try to save the trees, prospects don't look good and this will end the time-honored tradition.
Don't get me wrong. I think traditions are highly important. They provide a tie between young and old, then and now. They seek to signify that, as times change, some aspects of life remain the same. Tradition brings people together.
But for all the emphasis on the potential end to a hallowed tradition, I have read nor watched nary a comment about the senseless loss of life regarding the trees themselves. We're talking about two vibrant beings that -- were it not for their intentional poisoning -- could look forward to many more decades of life.
So, while I am indeed saddened by the loss of tradition for the humans at Toomer's Corners, I am even more saddened by the potential loss of life of the trees. They may not be aware of the traditional aspects. All they know is that they have been senselessly and, most likely, mortally wounded...all in the name of sports fanaticism.
We're told that the significance of these giant oaks pertains to Auburn tradition. After each significant athletic team victory, students and fans descend on Toomer's Corner to throw toilet paper (i.e., rolling) into the branches of the big trees. Though efforts are being made to try to save the trees, prospects don't look good and this will end the time-honored tradition.
Don't get me wrong. I think traditions are highly important. They provide a tie between young and old, then and now. They seek to signify that, as times change, some aspects of life remain the same. Tradition brings people together.
But for all the emphasis on the potential end to a hallowed tradition, I have read nor watched nary a comment about the senseless loss of life regarding the trees themselves. We're talking about two vibrant beings that -- were it not for their intentional poisoning -- could look forward to many more decades of life.
So, while I am indeed saddened by the loss of tradition for the humans at Toomer's Corners, I am even more saddened by the potential loss of life of the trees. They may not be aware of the traditional aspects. All they know is that they have been senselessly and, most likely, mortally wounded...all in the name of sports fanaticism.
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