Masala-SACE once again has brought Diwali, the Indian "Festival of Lights,” to Vanderbilt's campus. To some people this is merely a novelty to be experienced; to others it is a time to gather with friends under the auspices of tradition. No matter who you are or which group you fall into, we all need to be reminded of the importance of such events.

The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil. During the celebration, lamps are lit as a sign of celebration and hope for humankind. It also celebrates the Atman or the inner light (one's true nature that is meant to be infinite and transcend one's physical body). Furthermore, the BBC says the name Diwali “comes from the Sanskrit word ‘dipavali,’ meaning ‘row of lights’’ and the rows of lights "help the goddess Lakshmi find her way into people's homes. They also celebrate the return of Rama and Sita to Rama's kingdom of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile." To most of Vanderbilt's populace, this means little, but like any tradition, its value extends beyond those directly affiliated.

In the following week, I think everyone can and should take time to see where they have been and where they plan to go. This could mean pondering how your high school and college education will lead to medical school or if you really need to be in so many extracurricular groups. According to "Stress and College Students,” a brochure written by Drs. James Archer and Christina Carroll, most college students suffer from what would be classified as over-stress, but self-reflection and clarifying one’s values could reduce the stress level and its impact.

Another thing to consider is that over the years you will spend here, you will be exposed to thousands of people, most with different sets of beliefs and values, so from time to time it is necessary to understand what you believe and why it works for you. If it doesn't work, some beliefs or values might need to be jettisoned. Like any festival, it is not just a time to relax but to change. As Andy Warhol said, "They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself."

So, if you are going to take anything from the recent celebrations, let it be this: No matter your race, gender or creed, we need to spend some time understanding our traditions and what they mean to us. Tradition is where we come from, and it will be the best indicator of where we are heading.

—Thomas Shattuck is a freshman in the School of Engineering.