Traditions

Traditions

We all have them.

From our roots is where they stem.

Some purposely forgotten,

others meticulously kept

like a well-tended garden,

a semblance of identity,

valuable equity.

Pass them down;

mentor the young.

Invest in them

homespun love—

generation to generation

an external declaration 

that reaps internal preservation.

Traditions establish a reason to gather

that itself is an important matter.

The inspiration for this poem came from something my daughter Maggie said to me “Ma, it’s tradition”. I realized at that point how important traditions are. With the holidays upon us i’d like to share some of our traditions. Maggie-peaking at Christmas presents with siblings.

James-opening presents in birthorder and decorating sugar cookies.

Katie- printing Christmas scenes and coloring them with my siblings, hanging them up for Christmas decorations.

Robby-being the first one up and lighting the Christmas fire in the living room. Exploding with excitement when Aunt Mimi walked through the door on Christmas Eve.

Denise- making my annual trip to Arthur Ave. In the Bronx to buy all our holiday favs; bread, pastry, fresh veggies, prime rib for Christmas Day dinner. We can’t leave without a t-shirt from the market and an eggplant parm wedge for the ride home! Mom’s homemade manicotti and making my anise cookies. Of course, reading the gospel of Luke’s account of the Christmas story. Bobby-playing Santa Claus for all. There are many more I can share but these came from the words of my family members. A lot has changed In the family over the past 30 years. We’ve lost loved ones very dear to us. I cherish the memories, and make room for more. Bobby and I will become grandparents soon so the Santa tradition will continue ... There are those hurting, and suffering; who might not look forward to the holidays. Maybe, you don’t have family traditions. Make this year a new beginning to start a tradition; even if it is with a friend.

The bowl in my photo was carved out of log by Bobby’s great grandfather. I wish you all Happy Holidays! “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you.“

1Corinthians 11:1-2 ❤️