Even if you're not very religious, you have probably heard that we have a new pope (Habemus Papam), Pope Francis. It is hard to ignore someone who is selected to lead the Catholic Church and its over 1.2 billion followers around the world. The popacy comes with a significant amount political influence and has been a long-lasting world figure in history. For me, the most fascinating aspect has to be the traditions of the election of the Pope the past day or two; the secrecy of the entire process (including its language) just adds to the intrigue. It's basically a mystery for everyone except the people involved and all we can do is read it on Wikipedia and imagine we're in the Sistine Chapel during a conclave. It's the little things that really captivate me like the Master of the Papal Liturgical Celebrations calls out "Extra omnes!" to expel the outsiders. Did you know Wi-Fi-access is blocked in Vatican City and wireless signal jammers were used?
Ceremonial traditions are difficult to describe because of what they usually entail. Many of the traditions can be spectacular because of its long history especially in the case of the electing the Pope. In massive ceremonies like the announcement of the new Pope, wedding of a prince, and the Presidential Inauguration, it's tough to grasp being part of the ceremony. Millions (sometimes billions) of people are watching this one event and know that they are witnessing a significant moment in history. It's so staggering that even observers are enthralled by the occasion. But of course, being involved the ceremony does not even compare.
I remember participating in my first Honors Night at Hugh B Bain Middle School; it was one of the first traditional ceremonies I ever took part in. I had been to three of them before participating in my own for my siblings. But it was a different feeling sitting in the honoree section; I felt what many others did in those same seats years before me and all our eyes were on the ultimate prize, "Ideal Bain-ite", awarded to the best overall student which had been done for several decades (what seemed like forever at that age). After that, I've had the pleasure of observing and taking part in many more ceremonies. I must say being involved in them is much more satisfying not just because of the show of appreciation and awards; it is the little intricate details that you miss by just being in the crowd that I am fond off (Like what occurs in the line-ups of award/graduation ceremonies). It's the behind-the-scene aspects that seem to be the best details of the event; they are usually more personally too.
I'm am certainly not comparing the middle ceremonies that I've partaken in to the Popel conclave. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to participate in a historically important ceremony or even observe one in person for that matter. The closest I've been is probably the crowning of the 2011 NCAA Men's Basketbal National Champions, The University of Connecticut. I don't even try to comprehend the magnitude of massive ceremonies but I know once I do partake in one, I'll embrace every second of it.
P.S. I really wish I had pictures of me in my middle school Honors Night.