The scalloped oysters were the highlight of this early holiday celebration. It didn?Äôt matter that they were served with sloppy Joes and a variety of salads. What did matter on this evening is that the family was there and so were the oysters. Tradition! The family won?Äôt be together on Christmas, and so the oysters, which mean Christmas, are served when the family gathers. And, true to form, the oysters weren?Äôt quite ready to be served as the other foods were placed on the table. They waited just long enough in their baking to make an entrance. An entrance that would make them the center of the discussion, allowing them to invoke memories of numerous Christmases past. ?ÄúDad always had to have oysters at Christmas – remember??Äù Dad, who would have now been grandpa and great-grandad, started something years ago, a cherished family holiday tradition.
Does your family have a traditional holiday food or holiday tradition?
Strong families, research tells us, have a sense of and appreciation for family history ?Äì they see themselves as a link between the past and the future. Sharing your family heritage and traditions is a wonderful way to teach children and grandchildren your values. It can also give them a sense of ethnic roots or stress religious beliefs and customs.
When we look at what assets build strong, productive young people, we repetitively hear the importance of connection. Youth need to be connected to a caring adult, to a supportive family, and to a safe and caring community. They benefit from being connected to their roots, their heritage.
In a changing world we all, both children and adults, benefit from the repetitive nature of family traditions that provide us a comforting sense of security and continuity. The faith-based services, concerts, decorations, gathering with family and friends, the stories, and yes, the holiday foods tie the years of our family celebrations together and present them to a new generation. They are the traditions that make us families.
Celebrate your traditions: they are important.