One of our family’s favorite traditions is decorating the Christmas tree. Like everyone else who has a tree for the holidays, we like to make it look pretty, but it is the activities that surround this traditional event that make it so special.
When we first married, my wife and I had no ornaments for the tree, and we also lacked the finances to purchase fancy decorations. One evening, while shopping at the mall, we found some simple ornaments we liked at Sears and we brought them home. We covered our first tree with Styrofoam apples and strawberries, bows and gold thread balls. It was simple, but very attractive. We loved it because it was ours and it represented the new life that we would share together.
In addition to these basic ornaments, a small knitted duck and some mini taper candles that we purchased on our honeymoon in Williamsburg, Virginia, hung on that first tree. Since then, we add new decorations each year, and every one has a story. Some are gifts from friends, clients and coworkers. Others are purchases made at special occasions. As we place these ornaments on the tree, we remember the stories associated with them, and give thanks for the blessings they represent.
Twelve years ago, when we adopted our three children, the decorations took on new meaning. New ornaments for each child became a holiday tradition, but something more important happened in the process of adorning the tree. The stories of our past became the stories of our children’s past. We watched in awe as our three precious gifts: six, eight, and ten years old, took each ornament along with its history and made it a part of their life story.
Now, each year as we decorate the tree, the children take the ornaments and ask about their stories. Sometimes, they even tell us the now familiar tales. We laugh and smile as once again we celebrate the joy of being a family. There is time to show off for the video camera, then we all sit and watch the video of what we just accomplished. It never gets old, and our shelves display a series of videotapes that share the same memories over again, but with new life and joy. Together, the children, the ornament memories, my wife and I all grow closer together and we find a deeper blessing in sharing the holidays as family.
Traditions, when used correctly, strenthen relationships to our past and the people in our present. They give us a sense of place and connection, providing stability to envision our future. Traditions are not rules we are bound to, but opportunities to share our common journey. In our families, churches and communities, we make our way in unison for the joy of being together.
As we journey through this Advent season together, what traditions make this season special to you and your family?
