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In times of uncertainty and constant change, we all have a yearning for stability. We seek those timeless constants that provide dependability, comfort, and calm. The holidays provide all that and much more. They are, at their core, are a religious celebration steeped in meaning and deeply rooted in tradition. They are also time when we can connect with family and close friends. And through it all, we feel a warmth and enduring spirit. Where year, after year, we engage in the same celebrations, the same family gatherings, pull out the same Christmas decorations and fondly remember the joyous memories of Christmases past.
And, it’s all happening again this year. I’m not sure about you, but it’s been truly incredible getting into the holiday spirit over the last week or so. It’s that time of year when twinkling lights start to appear around the neighborhood, Christmas trees adorn the tops of cars on their way to their new homes, and where there’s just generally a magical spirit that fills the air. Yet where does this magical spirit come from? What makes the holidays matter so much? Is it the spirit of giving? The presents we receive from friends and family? Is it how we honor each of our religious heritages? Perhaps it’s all of the above.
Ultimately though, the holidays are of such great importance because of the traditions we both celebrate and honor. Holiday traditions and rituals not only pay tribute to the past in a significant way, they’re a reminder that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. They provide us with a sense of history and place, where we came from, why we’re here. From the food we cook, to the games we play, even the decorations a family may choose to put on their Christmas tree, or the menorah used to welcome in Hanukkah, holiday traditions are memento’s that can connect our present selves to the past, giving us a renewed appreciation for why we are who we are.
What’s even more magical is when we’re able to share those holiday traditions with others. As I was discussing this week's Sunshine Report with a friend, she shared with me that she didn’t really have many strong holiday traditions growing up, that was until she met her husband. As they began dating and then eventually got married, he shared some of his favorite traditions with her, and then eventually with their kids. She was shocked how much it helped give her a larger sense of self, especially as she started a family. I’m reminded of another story of a friend who was stuck abroad during the holidays. Missing his family, he was kindly invited to the home of a colleague who shared their Christmas traditions with him, bringing him a needed sense of comfort since he couldn’t be with his own family.
These are just a few anecdotes about the importance of the holidays. If there’s one message to take away here, it’s that the holidays nurture us, provide us with essential moments to bond with family, friends, and even ourselves. And it’s thanks to the traditions we celebrate, whether they be time honored, or something new someone’s brought to the table that help us do that, and that itself is something to celebrate!
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