Embracing Diversity and Celebrating Unity
In a world that is beautifully diverse, many families find themselves blending traditions and customs from different cultural or religious backgrounds. We may have just completed the holiday season, but I find this on my mind. Hopefully it will help with spring and future holidays. Personally, I grew up with Jewish parents but many of my first cousins married non-Jewish people. In fact, 42% of Jewish partnered people in a Pew survey reported being inter-married. The number jumps to a whopping 71% when they excluded Orthodox (the most religious) Jews from the data. So, when I married a non-Jew, it seemed pretty natural. We would blend traditions and have open conversations. However, I learned that many couples actually struggle with this. Navigating the holidays in such a diverse environment can be both rewarding and challenging. Let’s explore some tips and insights on how to manage the holidays in a two-faith household, embracing the richness of diversity while celebrating the unity within the family.
Set an Intention
This is an important first step. Each partner should do some individual work to identify what traditions they want to share and why. For some people, it is the warmth of childhood memories. For others, there may be a significant spiritual value. This will help you hone down on what is truly important to you. Your partner will most likely be more willing to adapt these traditions if they know why they are significant for you.
Open Communication
Communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and this is especially true in a two-faith household during the holidays. Start by having open and honest conversations about each family member’s traditions, values, and expectations during the holiday season. This creates an atmosphere of understanding and respect, laying the foundation for a harmonious celebration.
Educate and Share
Take the opportunity to educate each other about your respective religious or cultural practices. Share the significance behind your traditions, rituals, and holiday celebrations. This not only fosters a deeper understanding but also allows everyone to actively participate and appreciate the diversity within the family.
Be Adaptable
Some traditions may seem onerous. For example, as much as I enjoy having a live tree in my house (I’m a nature nut!). The whole process is cumbersome. It takes a lot of time and energy to decorate. Storing the ornaments and lights is a whole other issue. However, this is super important to my husband. Therefore, I help him in this endeavor.
Find Common Ground
Identify the common values and themes that exist between the two faiths. Embrace these shared elements as a way to create joint celebrations that incorporate aspects from both traditions. This not only reinforces unity but also strengthens the bonds within the family.
Create Blended Celebrations
Explore creative ways to blend traditions and rituals. For example, if one faith celebrates with specific foods, incorporate those into the holiday feast. Merge decorations, music, and activities to create a unique celebration that reflects the diversity present in the household.
Respect Individual Choices
In a two-faith household, it’s essential to respect each individual’s choice in how they practice or engage with their faith. Some family members may choose to actively participate in both traditions, while others may prefer to observe quietly. Encourage open-mindedness and acceptance of the diverse ways in which faith is expressed.
Establish New Traditions
Consider establishing new traditions that are unique to your two-faith household. This could be a special holiday ritual, a unique decoration, or even a family activity that everyone can enjoy together. Creating shared memories helps strengthen the family bond and provides a sense of unity during the holiday season.
Navigating a two faith household can be challenging. However, getting clear on whats important to you, respecting what’s important to your partner and open communication can make it a lot easier.
Need Help? Feeling Meh? Email Jen, she will get you set up with a women’s mental health specialist.
Sharon P. Fisher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and founder of Nurtured Well LLC, a boutique women’s mental health practice in Maryland.