Christmas is a religious holiday which was created by the Catholic church around 320 AD and became a season-long secular occasion with Christian teachings and distinctly non-Christian symbols including cookies, ornaments and decorated Christmas trees.
Many would agree that if we didn’t have Christmas, we would have to invent it.
Saying this, suggests you probably want to know how to start your own family tradition.
This year you can start with all sorts of memories that will last a lifetime.
Maybe you should start with tree decorations.
Personalise your Christmas tree by allowing every member of your family to add an ornament of his or her choice to the tree.
Display a favourite family photo or, if you are newly weds, show the history of how you met, your first date, engagement and wedding.
A photo of your first child or perhaps your grandchildren could also create fun.
Incorporate cultural tradition by broadening your family’s cultural awareness.
Sing Christmas carols or try a new dish for Christmas lunch.
And if you’re friends with families of other cultures, arrange an event at which you can share your favourite traditions.
Another idea is to share your culture with others by displaying a family photo and an ornament on the tree.
But remember, while you are creating traditions for your family, there are others who are less fortunate who might benefit from your new traditions.
Why not make their lives cheerful by handing out gifts to the homeless or any charity organisation in your area?
Stuff decorated shoe boxes with toys, school supplies, and personal care products or cookies for disadvantaged children.
Surprise your neighbour, who might be an eldery person, or visit your nearest old age home with meaningful gifts for those who have been forgotten by their families.
Give them something homemade such as cookies or chocolates.
