As we get closer to the end of 2023, many holidays and their traditions approach. What is a tradition? What is their value?
A tradition will “allow you to honor your ancestors and pay respect to certain aspects of your culture,” Preemptive Love states. Traditions can help you thank and honor your ancestors for their sacrifices and how they contributed to your family. It can also bring like-minded people together.
Traditions also represent culture. Author Frank Sonnenberg, who has written many books, stated that traditions also “form the structure and foundation of our families and society.” Traditions can be small, like weekly family game nights, or significant, like Thanksgiving, celebrated annually across the nation, and can build many relationships and play a big part in people’s lives.
“Traditions are something that’s passed on for years; they mean a lot to me and are a family bonding experience,” Rocky Hill Middle Schooler Sharini Suresh said. “Every year, for my birthday, we cut my birthday cake at 12am.” She also states, “[traditions] help you have something to remember someone by.“ This applies to many people because traditions help people grow in their connection with their culture through experiences and events.
Written by Brindha Mahadevan of Hallie Wells Middle School
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons