Often the best part of the holidays are the traditions you establish with family and friends. Cookies you make, car trips in your pajamas and bathrobe to see Christmas lights, watching movies together, and games you play are the true magic of the season. Heck, I used to look forward to taking DOWN our Christmas tree with my family growing up because that night we always ordered whatever Chinese food we desired. It was something to look forward to after a sad and dull task. The date doesn't matter -- it is what we do with others that creates the most special memories that touch the heart.
When loved ones pass on, holidays can change but the traditions still remain. Missing your mother or father's special holiday culinary creations? Why not try to recreate one or two with other family members? Of course it may never quite taste the same, but the time and effort you spend channeling those we love and honoring traditions they taught you, is what really matters. Play music that reminds you of them. Yes, you may cry, but you will most likely smile afterwards thinking of a funny event that happened years ago. Put out a special holiday candle, just for them. Tell your kids and grandkids stories of holidays past. Donate items in their memory - maybe dog and cat toys to a local shelter or snacks to a homeless shelter right before a big game on tv. Place an ornament on your tree in their memory. These are the ways you keep your loved ones with you and new traditions are born.
Traditions are what are handed down and what we make on our own. If your family and friends lack interesting and fun traditions, create new ones. They don't have to be perfect like a Hallmark card. The best ones are far from that. Strive to be yourselves and not stress. The best times are simple and often just happen. Ask for ideas -- even from the younger ones in your circle. Maybe you'll have an M&M buffet or fall asleep in front of the tv watching a marathon of cheesy holiday specials. Or you'll volunteer your time in honor of your loved one and smile up to the heavens - noting this one's for you! Physically gone but never forgotten. Until we all meet again.
May you feel the warmth this holiday season and know you are not alone. The love of family and friends, past and present, never goes away.
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