Written By Itoro E. Udofia
Traditions within a family are powerful threads that hold all things together. Defined as an “inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action or behavior.” Tradition is also the “handing down of information, beliefs and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction.” (Merriam-Webster)
The key element, the area of focus is that there is always an opportunity to write something extraordinary on the pages of history when we gather.
Thanksgiving is a national holiday. For some it’s one that harbors complex emotional experiences. A celebration birthed on the backs of a traumatic past. For others, it’s merely a time to connect with those most cherished and highly regarded…family. Wherever you find yourself on the spectrum this remains true, there can be redemptive qualities that pierce through the shadows and shine bright leaving a pathway for the next generation. Hope remains. The key element, the area of focus is that there is always an opportunity to write something extraordinary on the pages of history when we gather.
You may find yourself going through the motions for the sake of tradition. Observe your interactions. Be a cultural archivist. Ask yourself, how long has this tradition been in existence? When did it start and what are the underlying themes or values expressed? Upon reflecting exercise your liberty to curate something new.
Why should holiday traditions be reimagined? Only to make room for the expression of holy moments that remain dormant and lie just below the surface.
A common practice is to gather around a table, with joined hands and open hearts. Within a few minutes young and old express gratitude for various high points throughout the year. Some brave souls are willing to divulge challenges experienced while others share what’s safe and familiar. Gratitude for basic needs like health, shelter and food are endearing and welcome. But perhaps there’s more. Following a global pandemic and uncertain times there must be room for more. Space for vulnerability to sing its song, harmonizing with the chorus of personal growth and rising on the bridge of spiritual awakening.
More than being grateful for a circumstance or outcome, the challenge is to express in greater measure the capacity for whom you are grateful. As a person of faith, the “whom” is Jesus Christ. An invitation to use your words and highlight the attributes of God that point to Him as the source of needs met. Along with combing through recipes and gathering necessary ingredients for your traditional meals this holiday season, find ways to integrate God into your gratitude story.