Growing up, I didn’t have the perspective to appreciate the traditions my parents had in place. I didn’t appreciate them fully until I had my own kids.
Though I was aware, it was out of blending a family I learned how to create and also maintain traditions. Some need to change, some need to be maintained and it’s a tightrope figuring out what works for you and your family. I had to learn from experience walking tenderly through the mistakes along the way.
When you’re dealing with grief, whether it’s the loss of a loved one or some form of divorce, every holiday and repeated event can be a source of pain, celebration, or anything in between. Knowing this and being flexible enough to not force the experience will guide you through. This link to an article about how to approach it may be helpful.
Every year can look differently from the previous year, at least as you move through your transitions. You will find a new place and new traditions to blend with those you maintain as you navigate the journey.
Day 22: Take a few minutes to appreciate the traditions you have, those that no longer serve you, and make some space to evaluate whether or not some new traditions are waiting to be born. Embrace how they serve you or no longer need to serve you.