A Tradition Not Worth Dying For

Many of my non-Red Raider amigos like to boast about their beloved traditions from their respective alma-matars. From coaches endorsing team gang bangs at Colorado to drunken pyrotechnics at A&M, everyone has their favorite, but for this Red Raider, my favorite happens tonight.

Tonight on the campus of Texas Tech University will be the 47th Annual Celebration of the Carol of Lights. Not only a Tech tradition but also a Lubbock one. Even my Teasipper and Aggie friends plan on attending this Tech tradition. Starting officially on 1961 but with roots in a tradition from the 1950's, the Carol of Lights is truly a Tech experience. 20,000 of your closest friends and alums converge on the Math & Science Wing to sing, scream and watch the procession of the Saddle Tramps with their really cool melting fire sticks!

But for me, the best part of the experience ended last year. Many carols are performed by the Texas Tech Chorale Department but the climax of the event for many years was the singing of "Oh Holy Night" by a member of the music faculty. The gentleman's name escapes me, but the deep, rich tones of this mans voice could bring a tear to even the dumbest Aggie. This man retired last year and this will be the first year with a new voice. I'm sure it will be perfectly performed, but it will never be the same for me.

Now when I think of the best Tech tradition, it is Carol of Light. But would I be willing to die for this tradition? The answer is no way in Hell would that happen. Now, my Aggie friends will disagree and say otherwise. So tonight, wrap your kids up tight, pack the thermos and enjoy the festivities. I promise, no one will be killed or sexually assaulted as a result. Now that's what I call a tradition not worth dying for!