Good Tidings

Every year, like clockwork, I can't wait to get together with my family to celebrate Christmas. From the long hours we spend making tamales on Christmas Eve to the incredibly loud and loving Sicilian-American gathering at our house for Christmas dinner, nothing brings me more joy than being surrounded by family, love, laughter, and warmth. Traditions like these remind me to be grateful for the people in my life.

When I was younger, I was always embarrassed to tell my friends that I had to leave their house early to attend the Cefalu family's weekly Sunday dinner at Nanu and Nana's, or that I couldn’t hang out on Friday nights because of a family event. However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that my family has shaped who I am today—from my aunt's clumsiness, to my dad's personality, to my cousin's voice (Erica, this one's for you), and the heart of my mom. Family traditions not only connect me to my culture but also to the people I love. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m terrible at staying in touch with my family. Unfortunately, I only see my cousins about twice a year, and I am not the best at calling my grandparents. It’s during major events that we all come together.

Because life is full of uncertainties, I am stirred by emotions at the thought that this Christmas might be the last time I might see my cousins. The last chance to make tamales with my family. The last Christmas with my grandparents. These moments cause me to reflect and truly cherish the incredible people in my life.

If I had a chance to relive that last Christmas with my abuelitos, I would. If I could go back to those childhood walks around Shelter Island with my Nana and Nanu, I would. If I could return to the big family gatherings spent with my 24 tíos, 45 cousins (I’m not exaggerating—I really have about 45 first cousins on my mom’s side), and other family members whose names I can’t even recall, I would. My point is this; appreciate the difficult moments and cherish the good ones, because they could be your last.

Whatever traditions you and your family hold dear, I hope they brought you love and joy, allowing you to create memories that last a lifetime. My hope is that you give your grandparents that hug, belt “Maneater” with your cousins, and ask questions about your family’s upbringing because these moments shape us in to who we are.

Life can be busy and we forget to be intentional with our phone calls to grandparents, telling our parents we love them, or even taking a moment to message that long-lost cousin we follow on Instagram. Even though our lives are hectic and stressful, I share a reminder that it only takes a second to say "Hi."

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and a very Happy New Year to you and yours.

xoxo,

Giulia