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What Do Eggs, Coffee Cans, Popcorn Balls and Barleywine Have in Common?
All are elements of traditions. Rituals that evolve over time and build a foundation of belonging.
Traditions come in all shapes and sizes. Some are lasting while others fade away. Some are joyous, and some are solemn.
Traditions generate an emotional connection to the past and provide a bridge linking ourselves to the people around us. A shared experience with family, friends, neighbors or coworkers gives us a comfortable sense of belonging.
Coming together for celebrations emphasizes our connection to each other. The individual branches of my family tree live separately for most of the year. Holiday gatherings bring us together and the shape of our family tree emerges before us, stately and strong.
Heredity is the source of many holiday traditions. Passed down from generation to generation, these formal and informal traditions are the family rituals that adorn our childhood memories.
