More Than Traditions: The Universal Joy of Connection

Christmas Eve has always been one of my favorite times of the year. As a kid, I’d wake up with that rush of excitement, the kind only a child knows when they see presents waiting under the tree. The thrill of tearing into wrapping paper, the joy of finding that perfect gift, and the wonder of the whole morning felt magical. More than the gifts themselves, these moments stayed with me for the warm memories of love and togetherness they brought.

As I’ve grown older, my perspective has shifted. The thrill of the holiday now comes from the act of giving and seeing others light up. Last night on Christmas Eve, our celebration was simple. We hung out, made a simple but delicious meal, shared drinks around the firepit, and had good conversation. Watching my nephew eagerly open his gifts added a layer of joy to the day, reminding me of what makes these moments so special. It wasn’t about the size of the gathering or the number of presents exchanged. The warmth of being present with others, the laughter we shared, and the connections we nurtured are what linger long after the season ends.

The Language of Connection is Universal

The holiday season has been a time for celebration and togetherness for thousands of years, long before modern traditions like Christmas took shape. Ancient cultures celebrated the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, as a turning point, marking the return of longer days and the promise of warmth and light. From the Saturnalia festival in ancient Rome to Yule in Scandinavia, these early celebrations were filled with feasting, lights, and gatherings to ward off the darkness and welcome the sun’s return.

In Scandinavia, Yule traditions included burning a large log—what we now know as the Yule log—to symbolize light and hope. Families would gather around the fire, exchanging small gifts and stories. This connection to light persists today in the glowing candles, strings of lights, and fireplaces that are part of many winter traditions.

The tradition of decorating trees also has ancient roots. In 16th-century Germany, people began bringing evergreen trees into their homes as a symbol of life enduring through the cold months. The practice spread and evolved into the Christmas tree we know today, adorned with ornaments and lights to brighten homes during the dark days of winter.

Christmas, as celebrated today, blends these ancient customs with Christian traditions, emphasizing love, family, and generosity. In Italy, families share elaborate meals on Christmas Eve, with dishes like the Feast of the Seven Fishes. In Mexico, Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, with candlelit processions, music, and community feasts.

During Hanukkah, Jewish families light the menorah for eight nights, commemorating the miracle of the oil that burned far longer than expected. It’s a celebration of resilience and faith, with traditions like playing dreidel, sharing fried foods like latkes, and spending time with loved ones.

Kwanzaa, created in 1966, honors African heritage and culture. Celebrated over seven days from December 26 to January 1, each day highlights one of the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), such as unity, self-determination, and cooperative economics. Families light the kinara, exchange gifts, and reflect on shared values.

In India, Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated earlier in the fall but shares common themes of light triumphing over darkness and togetherness. Communities light diyas (oil lamps), set off fireworks, and exchange sweets, filling the air with joy and hope.

Even in Japan, where Christmas has fewer traditional ties, people celebrate in unique ways. It’s a time for spreading happiness through acts of kindness, sharing meals, and even quirky traditions like enjoying a Christmas Eve feast from KFC—a marketing phenomenon that has become a beloved custom.

Across cultures, light remains a central symbol, whether it’s candles on a menorah, strings of bulbs on a tree, or fireworks lighting up the sky. Light connects us to ancient traditions, symbolizing hope, warmth, and the human need to come together during the coldest, darkest days of the year.

While the specifics of how we celebrate differ, the underlying themes remain universal. We gather to share stories, food, and laughter. We exchange tokens of care, large or small, to show love. And we light up the world, literally and figuratively, to remind ourselves that even in the darkest times, there’s always light to be found. There’s something deeply beautiful about that.

Carrying the Spirit of Togetherness Forward

The heart of the season is found in presence, in the moments we share, and in the connections that bring warmth to our lives. This year felt different in so many ways. The absence of my dad was deeply felt, and shifting family dynamics brought moments of nostalgia for the past. Yet these changes also reminded me of the strength found in those who are still here. The family and friends who bring light and warmth into my life mean everything, and connection has become about embracing the beauty of the here and now. It’s the imperfect gatherings and unplanned moments that fill the air with laughter that truly make life rich.

As we step into 2025, the spirit of unity and connection moves with us. Regardless of where we come from or the ways we celebrate, we all share the same need—to feel seen, valued, and loved. Connection is always possible. It’s found in the small moments, the willingness to listen and understand, and the effort to truly see one another.

Imagine a world where every small act of kindness ripples outward, touching lives we may never even know. A simple act, like helping carry groceries, reaching out to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or offering a genuine smile, can inspire others to do the same. These little acts of care build momentum, creating waves of compassion and connection that extend far beyond us.

Take a moment to think about the relationships in your life. How can you nurture them in the year ahead? Maybe it’s by showing up more fully for those you love, offering forgiveness where it’s needed, or extending kindness to someone who feels unseen. Together, we have the power to make the world feel smaller, closer, and more connected.

Stepping into the new year, we have the chance to strengthen the ties that hold us together, deepening the connections that make life meaningful. Every small act of connection ripples outward, creating waves of compassion and unity. These acts create a brighter, more compassionate world where we see and celebrate the humanity we share.

This is the gift we can give each other every single day, long after the decorations come down. A gift that reminds us that we are—

One people. One story. Many voices.

We belong.