Last night, my family and I continued a long-standing tradition for us. We went and bought a Christmas tree—together. My wife brought out reindeer antlers, Santa hats, elf hats, and even a Rudolph’s red nose. Each one of us picked a costume, put it on, piled into our “Swag wagon” and listened to Christmas songs as we drove to the tree place.
When we got there, the person working the front entrance did not want to let us through. She said they were closing soon and could not let anyone else in. We told her how this was an important tradition in our family and how it is so difficult to get all of us together nowadays. After some hemming and hawing, the lady let our crew through.
We quickly picked out a tree and then stood in the long line to have the tree cut and wrapped. As we stood there, we sang Christmas carols and danced together. Though we sang loudly and out of tune, we laughed and danced. We even Facetimed other family members so they could virtually sing and be a part of the experience. The other people in line looked at us very strangely and were annoyed at us at first, but we did not care. We only sang more loudly. By the end of it, however, at least some of them were smiling and even singing along.
My family and I could have given up when we were told the tree place was closed. We could have stopped singing when people first complained. We could have even given up when we didn’t know all the words to the songs. But we didn’t. And when got home half an hour or so later, this year’s tree buying was already one of the best ones yet.
Though numerous obstacles got in our way, my family and I were able to keep our tradition going. Moreover, our laughter and silliness in spite of the looks we first got affected the loved ones we called and even the strangers around us. Our positive energy rippled out and made even the most cynical people present smile for at least a moment. Our persistence gave us one more excellent memory and gave everyone we touched a positive energy boost for a little bit.
This is why traditions are important. They connect you to your roots and keep your loved ones together. They also bring back great memories and help you create new ones. Good traditions will even bring new people together and allow them to enjoy the moments as well. Do not let life or others’ judgments get in the way of your traditions. Fight for them. Sing in spite of those judging around you. They’re going to judge you anyways. You only have this one life, live it your way, and make the memories you want.
Live Life,
Bert Oliva
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