The following is written by my friend, Christine Suriano. She and her husband Tony are inspirational models of faith-filled marriage and joy-filled family life. Thank you, Chris! 🙂
Therefore, brothers and sisters, stand firm, and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught. (2 Thess. 2)
I think there are times we do not hold on to tradition; be it home, family, community, church. It may appear “old-fashioned”, maybe even worthless to some. And, we certainly don’t have time anymore. Do you hear what I hear?
I love the times when we are together and talk starts about what we did when the children were young, or the habits and lifestyles of grandparents and relatives. We laugh heartily, and that seems to bring on yet another story that is even funnier.
Much of what we talk about is how we enjoyed the simple things. Not having a lot of money, we made do. We couldn’t afford hotels and resorts, so we tent camped. Sue and Chris shared a pair of clogs. The size was in the middle; a bit small for Sue and a bit large for Chris. Recently, we recounted memories of those who lived with us on a temporary basis. I had forgotten who they were, but we laughed our heads off.
We had the Lent and Advent traditions; both what we did at home and how we recognized the needs of others outside our home. How and why did we keep certain Christmas traditions, especially the tree and the food preparations?
The church was one of the most important places within our family. We shared and cared and were supported by genuine, faith-filled people and clergy. Taking on any responsibility was expected. Many shared and many gained from these experiences. It was a kind of Kumbaya-time in our lives.
Yes, things have changed over the generations. Change is a challenge, right? Times are different and there are some traditions we won’t give up. No matter where our families live, everyone gathers with other family members or neighbors and friends and has the traditional Italian Christmas Eve dinner. Our Christmas gifting remains the same. Even though someone might not agree with the chosen charity, it is their choice when it is their time up at bat.
It’s the memories, the traditions that may or may no longer exist, that have brought all of us to where we are as a family. Right here. In this moment in time. They have helped build relationships that have held true for 30, 40 and 50 years.
For all the above thoughts, emotions and memories, I thank you, God. You are forever awesome.
May you continue to enjoy your traditions!
catholic dialogue 
Well spoken, beautiful!
Chris: Thank you, thank you, Ray McCracken
I heartily agree! 🙂
So true, traditions are part of our lives both in family and community, we pass them on to our kids .Here in India traditions and customs are very important and followed religiously .Blessed with an Indian father and a British mother,we had immense fun our traditions were a Indian-British combination. In fact my daughter never lets me be when I try to give one of the family traditions a miss which must be making my mother smile !
Is this my dear friend from India? How wonderful to hear your voice, Veronica! It’s been too long! Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with family traditions across the miles and cultures. Please give my warmest regards to your family….and please come back often. Our dialogues will be so enriched by your voice. 🙂