I read a story a few years ago that left an indelible mark on my mind. A grandmother sent her grandson an invitation to Thanksgiving Dinner. Or so she thought. She had inadvertently invited a stranger, a 16-year-old high school student. He responded letting her know she had messaged the wrong number; however, if the invitation stood, he would love to join her and her family for dinner. This year marked the 8th year that this stranger-turned friend has spent Thanksgiving with this grandmother.
Two very different people from distinctive walks of life built a relationship around food, family and the holidays.
When we stop and take a breath, we can see that underneath the hustle and bustle of the holiday season there is an undercurrent of hope, love, family, friendships and neighbours that if tapped into can melt hearts and positively impact the lives of many.
People gather around tables and in homes. Grandparents, aunties and uncles help parents to carry on family holiday traditions or start new ones. Neighbours drop in on neighbours making sure that they are okay and have someone to share a meal with. These are all rituals that have been practiced and have helped to build peace in our communities.
Holidays are a time when families around the world come together to celebrate, reflect, and create lasting memories. Engaging in peace rituals during this period strengthens family ties, infuses harmony and brings a sense of tranquility.
Over the years many meaningful traditions have been adopted that foster peace in families and in the community. Here are just a few that anyone can easily start or add to their own.
1. Gratitude Sharing Practice
A man sat at the dinner table watching his family arguing and fighting on seemingly trivial matters year after year. One day, he abruptly cut everyone off and declared that things would be different that year during the holidays. He asked each invited family member and guest to share something they were grateful for before the meal was served. The conversations from that year were different. There was kindness, laughter and a sense of calm.
Practicing and sharing gratitude can deepen connections and improve well-being. It’s hard to be angry and grateful at the same time. It’s difficult to be mean to someone while sharing gratitude in the same moment. This practice encourages positive reflection and appreciation for one another.
One way to establish this tradition is by each family member sharing something they are thankful for during the holiday meal or at a designated time.
2. Sharing a Meal
“The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” Anonymous.
There is something about food that brings people together in a way that encourages listening and empathy. Have you ever noticed how many fundraisers are centered around food? Take for instance, galas or school fundraisers. Food is a central theme. Similarly, a peaceful holiday season often revolves around shared meals. Many people emphasize the importance of dining together whether its family, friends or neighbours and sometimes strangers. Beyond traditional holiday feasts, some families incorporate elements like sharing favorite dishes from different cultures, creating a diverse and inclusive experience. Mealtime becomes a celebration of togetherness, where laughter and love abound.
This can be especially impactful when families invite neighbours or community members who are far away from loved ones or who are alone to join them.
3. Acts of Service and Charity
Engaging in acts of service, such as volunteering at local shelters or participating in community outreach programs, embodies the spirit of giving that defines the Christmas season. When families come together to help others, they reinforce values of compassion, generosity, and unity. These shared experiences can be deeply fulfilling and strengthen the collective sense of purpose.
Acts of service and charity can bring together strangers in community. When people share a common experience, it builds a strong bond and helps both parties to find peace and share it with their communities. Empathy and understanding are fostered.
4. Honoring Loved Ones
Holidays can be tough for families who have experienced loss. Creating rituals to honor absent loved ones can provide comfort and a sense of continuity. Lighting a candle, sharing fond memories, or dedicating a special ornament in their honor can keep their presence felt during the celebrations.
5. Simplifying Gift-Giving
Many families in Manitoba partake in holiday customs that are centered on gift giving, but in more recent years shared activities that contribute to the creation of lasting memories are taking priority. Whether it’s playing board games, street hockey, traveling, visiting museums or going to the spa together, the importance of simplifying gift giving coupled with spending time together increase peace within the family. To reduce financial stress and focus on the essence of the season, families might also adopt a minimalist approach to gift-giving. This could involve setting a limit on the number or cost of gifts, organizing a gift exchange, or focusing on experiential gifts that create lasting memories, such as family outings or shared activities.
6. Incorporating Cultural & Religious Traditions
Embracing and celebrating diverse cultural traditions within the family can promote inclusivity and understanding. Exploring different holiday customs, cuisines, and stories enriches the family’s experience and fosters a sense of global connectedness.
Many families incorporate specific cultural or religious rituals into their Christmas celebrations, such as attending midnight church service, preparing traditional meals, or engaging singing at concerts or door to door. These practices honor the family’s heritage and instill a sense of identity and belonging. Participating in such rituals can provide comfort and continuity, linking the present to the past and future generations
Conclusion
Peace rituals during the Christmas season are a beautiful way for families to strengthen their bonds and focus on what truly matters. Whether through acts of gratitude, service, or quiet reflection, these traditions remind us that the holidays are not just about celebration but about creating lasting memories of love and harmony. By embracing these rituals, families can ensure that the spirit of Christmas continues to inspire peace long after the season ends.
This article was written by community writer Tsungai Muvingi as part of our – Community Writers Project. All thoughts and opinions expressed are Tsungai’s own. You can learn more about Tsungai on our team page here.
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