As a family, we write out a note (no more then one sheet of paper) on what and why it is that we appreciate each other, separating each reason why from the family member's name, until all in the family are written out on the paper. We then quietly put the folded up paper into a designated box/place or large bowl and wait until the day of our family's holiday celebration.
We read them aloud to each other at the dining table before the meal begins. No names are ever signed to the notes but you know who you are that wrote it and then you personally can see just how much it means to the person or persons who received the compliments about them from you and in such a secretive way.
Christmas has gotten too commercial for any family these days and writing these things out not only makes you sit down and think about each person, but to describe why you do love them so much.
This costs nothing money wise BUT I would suggest a box a kleenex sitting on both the ends of the dining table as there will be moments of tears, I can promise.
Some of God's children can not express themselves in our spoken language but can in their written word.
No one ever knows who really said what about who BUT each member has such a better outlook toward each other after they are all read aloud.
When finished reading the folded papers, have a wonderful meal together, with no bickering, just moments of gratitude toward each other.
You will be amazed at how this affects each one and in such a calming way.
By Paula Jo Carr from Mebane, NC
By Rosalie Shoeman (Guest Post)
11/06/2006
What a wonderful tradition with family & friends. I agree about all the commercialism; bring back the good old-fashioned celebrations with family alway.
Thanks for sharing such a wonderful way to celebrate; perhaps some of us would like to do the same. Glad there are tissues close by as I would be very teary-eyed reading these and listening to the other ones.
By Coreen (Guest Post)
11/07/2006
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