Listen to the Kids

In tough times like these, there is a profound comfort in the rituals that remind us what matters

Swell Media / Getty

No one, not Saudi Princes or Skull and Bones or the Daughters of the American Revolution, ranks as the most traditional among us; that distinction belongs to our kids, who if they organized into a guild or a club or a denomination would have more cherished rituals than the Mormon Church or Mardi Gras.

In our house, we're about to be reminded how strongly they feel about leaving out the correct cookies for Santa. Just as they feel strongly about the traditional sleepover the night before the last day of school. Or the cake on the dock on the last night...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!