Because my parents raised me with traditional American Christmas traditions, I find it important for me to celebrate these holidays. I have placed an emphasis on these holidays to spend time not only with my family at home but also with my extended family. This had an impact on me because I value family and the importance of certain holidays like Thanksgiving. This has had an impact on me because I am now very family oriented and this is a value I teach my son. This tradition influences me because it shapes who I am. I am a mother, a woman and a strong person who opens up to share in all areas of life. I could have been a whole other person, but in the end I became myself. Some traditions in society force you to be someone you are not or make you feel uncomfortable like Malcolm ). I learned that traditions are exactly what you create together with your family. Secondly, attending family gatherings has allowed me to see how important family truly is. Without my family I would be alone and lonely in this world. Third, attending dinner every week with my husband and son has kept me from being swept away by society. With this tradition I have learned to slow down and stop letting the frenetic movements of the world dictate my own