As we enter this special time of year, we are put in mind of Christmas seasons gone by. We may be reminded of the warmth and joy found at home, or perhaps the adrenaline rush that comes from last-minute holiday shopping! For the most part however, we are reminded of our traditions.
Traditions have earned a bad reputation for some as being outdated or old-fashioned; but to me, there’s something nostalgic about Christmas traditions and how they are connected to our memories. It provides us with a way to stay connected to our past–reminding us of where we come from, our family or cultural identity, and our Savior–in a very special way.
I asked my friends what Christmas traditions their families have, and it warmed my heart to see the joy on their faces as they shared their stories with me. One sweet lady shared that she and her family make tamales together on Christmas Eve to enjoy on Christmas Day. Another friend shared how her parents read a special Advent book to her and her sister when they were little and now that they’re grown, each sister has a copy of that same book to read to their children. From movie-watching to Christmas cookie baking, I could tell that my friends have special memories of time spent with their families at Christmas.
It’s such a blessing when traditions can be passed along to each generation, connecting families over decades or maybe even centuries. Perhaps certain decorations like a nativity are handed down to following generations, or maybe there is an ornament that has sentimental value and is only just now beginning its journey throughout the family. My dad has a “Christmas tree” made by his grandmother. She made the decoration out of a large pinecone, painting it white to make it look like snow had settled on the tree, using beads to decorate it beautifully and topping it with a little angel. It is very fragile and beautiful, connecting my dad and our family to previous generations.
It was a blessing to be reminded of the deep connections families have around the holidays through shared traditions. Family keeps us grounded by reminding us of where we come from and how much we’ve grown, always helping us refocus on the most important things in life. As a Christian, this is such a special time of year to celebrate the miraculous birth of our Savior Jesus Christ, filling us with hope, peace, joy, and love overflowing.
I pray you have a blessed Christmas season full of old family traditions and perhaps the creation of new ones. If you feel comfortable sharing, please comment on this post your family taditions–I would love to hear about them! Until tomorrow, Merry Christmas! ❤️💚
Books, Coffee, and Jesus 