I can't say that I have watched every episode, but over the years I have watched many episodes of Jeopardy. I love playing trivia games. In fact it is the one time I get competitive (Brian would say too competitive). So I like to play along with the contestants on the game and I try to get the right answers before they do. While I am quite certain there is no 5 game winning streak in my future, it is fun to challenge myself.
Of course there was something about Alex as well. Alex Trebek was the long time host of the show. He died last fall after hosting the program for 30+ years. A new replacement host competition was held throughout this winter and spring. Eventually a new permanent host was found and also a host for various specials. The new permanent host had to step down because of controversy so once again the show is looking for the right one.
Mr. Trebek was very good at his job. He had a winning combination of knoweldge, humour, and affability that made him a great choice to be host. The new person will need to bring their own personna, gifts and challenges to the role. They need to be like Alex but not too much like Alex. They need to honour the old and bring in something fresh. It will not be an easy choice.
In life we always struggle with this. Life cannot be static. Life always is in a state of change. But all of us carry with us the baggage of tradition. Some traditions are wonderful and need no alteration. Some traditions need a bit of adjustment in order to work better. Some traditions are definitely past their best before date and need to be put i the archives. One needs to deal with all traditions with sensitivity. Change does need to happen. But change needs to be done thoughtfully, carefully, and slowly. Change for change's sake never works. Change needs to be explained. Change must be planned, directed, and needs buy in by others to have any chance for success. Change is tough work.
Replacing Alex Trebek may seem like a trivial think. He was a host on an entertainment show. No one is going to live or die because one person is named host and not the other. But it represents the best of how we make changes. The decision will involve honouring some traditions, discarding other traditions, and struggling to make a change in a complex environment. What is not easy to do? The answer is change. Blessings.
