Tradition Speaks Volume

Traditions play a major role in shaping culture, and making a positive environment. Whether it be at a school, a place of employment, or within a family, traditions are an important way of life. Traditions are significant when it comes to leaving a mark, and keeping something going that is important, and recognizable. It is easy for people to forget special celebrations or routines. Companies gain reputation from traditions, families pass theirs on for generations, and schools gain recognition from them.

My family had many different traditions growing up. Some traditions we started ourselves, while others have been passed down through time. Some are simple and fun, like having pizza night on Wednesdays. We would also occasionally play games as well. I think this tradition might be one reason pizza is not my favorite food anymore. Pizza every Wednesday is a lot of pizza. Another tradition that is more important to me, is that we say my late great Grandmother's prayer every Thanksgiving before we eat. This prayer has been passed down through generations, and is special every time my Dad says it. These traditions are what makes my family unique, and gives us this sense of identity to others and amongst ourselves.

Traditions are everywhere as I said before. Every year at my job, we decorate for Christmas. Although that sounds basic and not like a tradition that would set us apart from others, it is still fun. Doing this together is such a happy part of the year, and sometimes a pharmacy is not the brightest place. Even our customers know that this time of the year, with it being all decorated, makes the holidays a little bit sweeter. It makes it not feel like such a chore to work by having sweet little traditions such as these.

My sorority, Phi Mu Kappa Sigma at Jacksonville State, is another part of my life that is filled with traditions. Our own chapter has created its traditions, but as Phi Mu was founded in 1852, the three founders started tons of traditions then as well. While some rituals are secret, many others are not. Two big events we host on campus, like our annual golf tournament and Dance Marathon, both raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Both of these are amazing traditions. These traditions show Phi Mu’s reputation, how they engage others, and what they built their foundation upon.

Every organization has values, a mission, and a vision. Most will be different, but some have similar key components. Creating something like traditions is so important. It brings a sense of belonging. Within my family, our traditions bring us a sense of comfort and seem to bring us all together. At my place of employment, our Christmas decorating provides us the ability to bind people together. It brings us together, as well as our customers. With my sorority, these traditions forge bonds that strengthen with time. All of these traditions nurture the thought of positivity, no matter the environment.