From the Bronx to a Heart Full of Memories
Growing up in the Bronx, the holidays were not marked by the typical scenes of Santa’s gifts under a tree or the sparkling lights of festive decorations. My parents, Khmer refugees rebuilding their lives in a foreign land, poured their energy into ensuring our basic needs were met. Their sacrifices gave us the foundation for resilience and love, but holiday traditions as we see them now were not part of our story.
As an adult, I cherish how my brothers and I have chosen to rewrite that narrative. Together, we have built our own traditions that center on unity and joy. The holidays are now a time when we gather, share laughter, and indulge in the traditional dishes that connect us to our roots. Cooking together is an act of love—each dish steeped in memories of family recipes and shared meals. We play board games, watch holiday movies, and create a space filled with warmth, where everyone’s presence feels like a gift.
These gatherings have taken on even more meaning as I create holiday traditions for my daughter. Her curiosity about our family traditions inspires me to reflect on my childhood and the sacrifices my parents made. As I share those stories with her, she’s developing empathy and a deeper understanding of the diversity of people’s experiences. She learns that while some have an abundance of holiday cheer, others treasure the quiet resilience of simpler celebrations.
Through these moments, my daughter and I are creating our own traditions. Together, we are shaping a holiday season filled with love, reflection, and togetherness. These are the memories I hope she’ll carry forward—the joy of board games with cousins, the comfort of sharing a family meal, and the understanding that traditions are not just about decorations or gifts but about the love and connections we build.
In the upcoming holidays, let's appreciate our legacy—a reminder of where we come from, who we are, and the power of choosing how we connect with those we hold dear. Happy Holiday's to You and Yours!
