Our differences bring us together

During the holiday season, it seems we do many things the same way that we have always done them, and, for that matter, the same way our parents did them. But, if you think about it, it is not really so surprising that we repeat ourselves.

These reminders of our past comfort us. I make a three layer coconut cake every Christmas just like my Mother. I'm told that she learned from her Mother to pile the divinity icing on one inch thick at Christmas because my Father proposed in February just because he liked it so much! Even though they are worn and faded, my most cherished decorations are the ones from my childhood. And, every Christmas Eve will find us at a candle light carol service before our feast and on Christmas morning we will all replay the same routine as always, even though the children are virtually, grown.

Down the street, my friend's Menorah honors her entry hall. Her house has been full of very different smells and celebrations. Hanukkah fell before Christmas this year and it was they who led the way toward celebration and traditional rituals. Our Jewish friends shared delicious potato latkes with us and we even learned to play the dreidel game with our chocolate candy gelt. Hanukkah is a holiday which commemorates the miracle of the oil and of precious freedom being won from oppressors. It is this remembering the struggles of the past that helps us value what we have today.

When we all get together, we enjoy a swirling celebration that joins two different religions and traditions together. This diversity is what makes us stronger if it is nurtured with mutual respect and support. And those reminders of our past keep us strong because down deep, it is our history that makes us who we are. Our friends at Ancient Ties make it their business to keep reminders of our heritage integrated into our daily lives. This Winter, let's celebrate our differences and in doing so, find a wealth of delightful similarities!