Traditions that Bind One Generation to the Next

Holidays have a way of reminding us of those who have come before— the family and friends we so often reminisce about, tell stories about, and pass the memories and stories on to the next generation. Family members frequently refer to a recipe as “Aunt Jessie’s special beans” or “Miss Mary’s funeral salad,” and everyone knows exactly what dish you are bringing to the family potluck. Or there may be a favorite family saying that every time the occasion arises, someone will repeat it. In our family one such saying pops out of someone’s mouth each time a member attempts to open one of today’s unbelievably difficult to get into packaged items. “Old people are gonna die because they can’t open these packages!” It was Jimmy’s favorite retort, and it’s funny to hear the grandchildren echo his sentiment. It’s these little moments that bind the generations. I know right now you are thinking of a tradition your family enjoys. This past July 4th my daughter decided the “dress alike” tradition started by Doug and Jimmy should now be handed down to their grandchildren. Each Christmas and July 4th, the two Cooper brothers would go on a quick shopping trip (usually Walmart) for their holiday outfits. Some were very classy (well, a few), many were awful, but the two always delighted in making an entrance in the outfit of the season. And the family loved it. Tami did the shopping for the grandsons this year, but we fully expect them to make a trip to Walmart next year. And none of the three hesitated to wear their matching suits on a New Braunfels Comal River tube float. Well, at least not until they were in the river! In viewing pictures of Roxton’s past July 4th celebrations, I was reminded of the city’s rituals for this holiday. So many of the town’s traditions begun on that first full blown celebration in 1976 are with us today. The games are the same ones played that year, Chris and Cody Calisto still officiate the games, the parade with its bikes, tractors, horses, smattering of floats, and four wheelers is timeless, and the fireworks are always at “dark thirty.” I would be surprised and saddened if any of this changed. It is the traditions set by those before us that knit the generations together and keep all those forefathers alive in our hearts and celebrations. What family traditions are part of your family gatherings? Share a tradition with the Progress readers. We all love a good story.