Hello friends,
Do you have a favorite tradition? A special chair for your birthday or that one dessert you always request comes to mind.
Over 45 years ago, I bought a small green Christmas elf to place in our tree. He's been showing up hidden among the branches, faded but faithfully watching over the preparations and opening of gifts.
His presence reminds us of the laughter, the love, the squeals of delight, and the anticipation about where he will decide to sit in the tree each year.
As I glanced at the Elf this week, I thought about the power of traditions. Those small rituals repeated over time anchor us to what matters most. But their stability forges the future with hope.
Traditions build a sense of belonging and draw us closer together. Our stories revolve around those traditions and reflect collective values.
Remember Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof? He shouted for "traditions!" They kept him grounded and balanced. As the world around him shook, he sought comfort in the traditions of his life and faith.
Over time, traditions may evolve, fade away, or new ones emerge. Some we hold onto because they carry a purpose stronger than the waves of change engulfing us.
Even when circumstances try to upend our traditions, at the heart lies a sense of belonging, friendship, and family.
I hope your traditions bring joy, remembrance, and belonging.
Always remember the gift you least expect may sit right outside your door.
Leslie Wibberley shares many of her Scandinavian traditions and a favorite family recipe!
Listen to Tevye's “Tradition!” and one of my favorites, “Silent Night” as a guitar solo, and sung by The Vienna Boys Choir (“Stille Nacht”)
"Tradition is not to preserve the ashes, but to pass on the flame."
—Gustav Mahler
Find a little wonder this week in the peace and comfort of traditions, or make a few new ones to carry into 2024 and beyond.
With gratitude,
Kathryn
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