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28
Mar
2018
I write these words while Wheel of Fortune flickers on TV. I’m not paying attention, but I’m dimly aware of the rituals being acted out on the screen. Spinning the wheel. Applauding on cue. Groaning when someone goes “Bankrupt.” Standing on the right spot on the floor for the final challenge, when exactly the same letters will come up every time.
Meanwhile, Vanna White pretends to turn blank squares turn into letters -- even though everyone knows she’s only there as eye-candy.
The formula is so predictable, it could be hosted by a robot. Maybe it is.
And audiences love it.
Yet people claim to dislike rituals. Typically, they call them “meaningless.” Especially in the religious context.
Categories: Soft Edges
Tags: Rituals, routines, systems