Lilly, Holidays are occasions that instill optimism in a family. No matter what happens in a family during the years — deaths, divorces, arguments, or estrangements — holidays create the opportunity for hope, new beginnings, and healing. Don’t allow holidays to become stale and rote. Weave new traditions into the fabric of your holiday rituals. Try new food, decorate with new colors, invite new people, or go to new places.