Tradition: Who Cares?

I'm curious,

What is the ultimate significance behind "tradition"? Not just during the holidays, but at any time. What value do people place behind it? Why do people feel an obligation to abide by it? Or is it an obligation? Do people need it? What more is tradition than an unbreakable habit or routine? Ultimately, I can see it being a comforting utility to certain individuals, but I don't know that it's necessary. Traditions stifle people's ability to experience new things, to consider new perspectives, to embrace novelty.

There’s a blind reverence to tradition that kind of frightens me. I've heard people say that tradition helps to establish happy memories and foster a sense of community. Maybe, but so do a million other things. I don't think I'm any worse off for having less tradition. I'm pretty sure tradition is nothing more than habit, and I hate being stuck with too many habits. I value the flexibility I have without it. But, this stuff is all relative, I suppose.

Sincerely,

A Somewhat Pensive Dude