‘Thanks-giving’ and the benefits of tradition

As I contemplate the approaching Thanksgiving holiday, I find my thoughts drifting back to the formative years of my youth while being raised by my paternal grandparents who immigrated from Italy. A time in my young, impressible life, when traditions were the very foundation of our inner, core world. A family structure that would grow to become the greatest gift I would ever receive in my early life for I learned what it meant to live, love, honor, respect, and celebrate together among generations of family.

Memories traveling back in time to the days when Sundays and holidays meant going to church in the morning, to be followed by a large afternoon meal with generations of family, which always included a “kid’s table”, one, where I would sometimes find myself sitting as an adult! Traditions and core values that till this very day, continue to live within my heart with so much love and gratitude, as well as the hearts of countless others.

Traditional memories are shared, weaving the ties that bind us, always to be a part of us all no matter where life takes us. Yes, traditions, be they shared with family or friends is the glue that connects and strengthens relationships be it from our past, present, or future.

People all over the world celebrate in their own way, but what is most common are celebrations that are traditional to their culture. Traditional celebrations are one of the most significant parts of human history and they have been shown to reduce stress, increase mental well-being, and increase physical health.

Life is constantly changing. Sometimes it feels like right when you catch up and get in the swing of things, something else comes out of nowhere and throws you off balance again. One thing family traditions provide is consistency. When you’re feeling lost, traditions can provide stability and make you feel grounded again.

The Benefits of Traditions

Traditions Can Help Strengthen Family Bonds

Family traditions can help create strong bonds between family members. They give us a sense of belonging and help us feel connected to our loved ones.

Traditions Can Help Us Connect with Our Culture

Traditions can also help us connect with our culture. They can give us a better understanding of our history and where we come from. And they can help us appreciate the diverse cultures that make up our world.

Traditions Can Provide a Sense of Stability

In a world that can often feel chaotic and unpredictable, traditions can provide a much-needed sense of stability. They remind us of what’s important to us and help us stay grounded in our values.

Traditions Can Help Us Teach Our Children Important Values

Family traditions are a great way to teach children important values like respect, responsibility, and self-discipline. They can also help instill a love of learning and an appreciation for other cultures.

Traditions Can Be Fun

Last but not least, traditions can be a lot of fun! From holiday celebrations to birthday traditions, there are endless opportunities to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

On a personal note: Even though life and holiday traditions may have changed to some degree in today’s ever-evolving world, it doesn’t mean we can’t create new traditions of our own. After all, sharing traditions be they old or new is about bringing people together and giving thanks. So, here’s to Thanksgiving, both the holiday and what I like to affectionately refer to as “everyday thanks-giving.”

Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.