Traditions to Treasure

“Tradition is a guide and not a jailer.” 

~ William Somerset

British playwright, novelist and short story writer. He was among the most popular writers of his era and reputedly the highest-paid author during the 1930s.

 (1874 - 1965)

While traditions can be wonderful, and often heart-warming, some traditions are neither, and some can even be disappointing, burdensome and/or painful.

So, this holiday season, you are encouraged to list all the traditions you have and note whether you want to keep, renew, change or discard them. You need no reason other than how you think about them or how the act/actions make you feel. If your spouse, friends, and/or family is involved in the tradition, consider doing this review together.

After assessing existing traditions, note what you would like to do that is new to you...your own ideas or the adoption of some you have heard about from others. Select one or more and make them your own. These are things that bring joy, nostalgia, peace or just plain fun to your world. These will be YOUR traditions...embrace them and make them what you want them to be!

As the quotation reflects, traditions are to guide and lead you and others, not imprison you, so while traditions can be wonderful; those that are not purposeful are something you can wrap up in your memories and unwrap something new this year. Make your traditions those you treasure!