The highlight of this experience was the Thanksgiving Corn. Each family member was given three kernels of corn to represent three things for which they were most thankful. At a designated time, each family member would provide their list of blessings. Most would say noble things like family, friends, faith, etc. However, my grandmother would always reserve the last kernel of corn to express her gratitude for air-conditioning. Now that my grandmother has passed away, we continue this tradition wherever Thanksgiving is celebrated. Invariably, someone will bring up my grandmother’s air-conditioning comment and we laugh while wiping a tear or two away. I am so grateful for this tradition and I hope to continue this and establish new traditions for my family.

Think back to your childhood. What were some of family traditions that now provide your fondest memories? Maybe it was hosting a haunted house in your garage or going on a neighborhood hay ride. Maybe it was sprinkling food for the reindeers or sharing a slice of Christmas Cake (prepared with Aunt Francis’ secret family recipe). I believe traditions are important for a number of reasons.

First, they provide some built-in family time. In our world where family members are flying in all sorts of different directions, traditions with family ensure that everyone comes to the dinner table. Even your 16-year-old, who is mad at the world and would rather being doing anything other than hanging out with a group of people that are basically stupid and out of touch with reality, will turn off her cellphone and secretly enjoy the white-elephant exchange that happens every year (even though she would rather die than admit it).

The second reason traditions are important is that they offer a sense of belonging. You ask ten unrelated people what Christmas traditions were practiced in their home and you get ten different answers. Although there are the old standbys like the Christmas tree and a visit from Santa, each family has their unique way of celebrating the importance of family and the season.

The third reason why traditions are important is that they unite generations for a common purpose. Let’s face it, there is little in common between an 80-year-old and an 8-year-old. However, when it is all said and done, kids will remember the last holidays with grandpa more so than the Ninja Action Warrior he had been begging for.

Traditions are the memories that we cherish for years to come. In my opinion, every family should have specific traditions that shape special occasions. If you don’t have one, borrow one from a previous generation. It is these moments that will ultimately define your family.