At Triton Regional High School, holiday traditions look different for everyone: some students, such as senior Avah Hamlin, don’t celebrate Christmas much, while others, such as sophomore Emerson Murphy and history teacher Lisa Herzl, celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah as part of their Jewish faith mixed with relatives’ catholic faiths. From decorating trees and baking cookies to lighting the menorah and sharing family traditions, students and staff bring a mix of customs that make the season festive for all.
These diverse traditions help students and staff learn from one another while bringing the school together to celebrate the season in their own ways. The Triton Voice set out to show how these diverse traditions bring the school community together, helping everyone learn about and appreciate each other’s cultures.
Psychologists say traditions strengthen family bonds and create a sense of belonging. The American Psychological Association notes that shared rituals and celebrations help reduce stress and make people feel more connected — especially important during colder months when people tend to spend more time indoors. According to Coupert’s research on the global Christmas economy, about 33% of the world’s population (≈ 2.6 billion people) participates in Christmas celebrations, whether for religious, cultural, or commercial reasons.
Murphy especially enjoys the holiday season and giving back.
¨For me, the holiday season is about family, community, and sharing joy with others, along with giving to those in need or the ones you love,¨ said Murphy.
Senior, Skylan Carmody, and staff member, Lisa Herzl, agreed on the family aspect of holidays. It’s a time to be with friends and family and share. Food gifts and time together, said Hurzl.
However, not all people fully feel this way. Hamlin does not feel strongly about holidays, just spending them with whoever’s around. Oh, and eating duck! When asked what a favorite holiday food was, this was an uncommon favorite among Hamlin and Murphy.
¨My favorite food to eat during the holidays is duck,¨Murphy states. Mrs. Herzl believes that during Hanukkah, anything fried in oil is traditional. ¨Like latkes, a crispy fried potato pancake. Also love Christmas cookies. Just all the junk food.¨
Carmody said she loves Thanksgiving, recording her favorite foods as stuffing and turkey, seemingly a favorite among most of the people interviewed. The memories of Thanksgiving dinner are what make the holidays special, as memories are the foundation of everything. Carmody says her favorite memory is ¨Probably going away for Thanksgiving to Samoset in Rockport, Maine¨ She states that Samoset is a resort, which she also states she enjoyed, the water and sun. Hamlin also has very specific memories of the holiday, Easter, enjoying her favorites with her favorite people.
¨Hiding easter eggs with my family, this Easter, we had duck and venison, and then chomped on some two-foot-tall chocolate bunnies,¨ said Hamlin. Mrs. Herzl’s favorite memories are of her and her son making donuts from scratch for Hannukkah every year. Family, it’s great on holidays, but so are the presents and gifts throughout the year. Murphy states her favorite memory is getting an Xbox in 2016 for Hanukkah.
This coming season, Triton should strive to celebrate together and share these beautiful traditions with others, leading to a more jolly environment.
