Gary Barg, Editor-in-Chief
And how do we keep our balance?
That I can tell you in one word… Tradition.
(With apologies to Fiddler on the Roof)
This week, during the first night of Passover, family members, as they have done for hundreds of generations sat around many Seder tables and celebrated the holiday together. Only this year as we had done so over the past two years and opposed to any other year, it may take place at many tables for the same family. Thanks to Facetime, Zoom or Skype.
This weekend, families will be going to church to celebrate Easter, as they have done for hundreds of generations, and for the first time in two years, the visit most likely will once again be in-person. The better to show off our finest Easter outfits.
My youngest great-niece turned three-years old this past weekend and although I don’t think she will remember the specifics of living in the time of Covid-19, the events of the past few years will be an important part of her upbringing, as was with any child living in times like these throughout history.
I think that the early Israelites or Christians didn’t think, as they were living through their respective traumas – “hey, some great traditions will come of this.” They just knew their stories and lessons were important to share with future generations and they did it through communication, whether it was spoken word, metaphors or scrolls.
I think this is such a moment. What traditions or lessons do you want your great-great-great (etc.) grandchildren to learn about these times? What traditions do you want to create for your immediate family, as we live in the times of a (hopefully waning) pandemic? How do we express the fact that no matter who we are or what country in which we live, we are all affected by living in the time of Covid-19?
Thankfully, the technology of the day has allowed family and loved ones to share our moments together, even if we are apart.
P.S. this past weekend was also the birthday for our esteemed Editor and partner, Nancy Schonwalter (although. I won’t share how many years there are between her birth and my great-nieces)
Especially during these important holidays – our hearts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people.
We want to hear from you. Share your thoughts and family traditions below.