Walking into my mother-in-law’s house recently, I was taken aback by a giant Christmas tree standing tall in her living room. It wasn’t just any tree—it was meticulously decorated, adorned with twinkling lights, shimmering ornaments, and an air of festive cheer. At first glance, I couldn’t decide whether to be impressed or perplexed. After all, my MIL is 70 years old—why would she go through all this effort for a tree?
The situation made me pause and reflect: was this elaborate display just a misplaced focus on the past, or was there something deeper at play? Let’s unpack this together.
Why Would a 70-Year-Old Go All Out on a Christmas Tree?
At first, I couldn’t wrap my head around it. Why would someone her age spend so much time, effort, and money decorating a tree? When I asked her, her answer surprised me: “It reminds me of my childhood, decorating the tree with my mom before she passed away.”
Her explanation caught me off guard. What I initially saw as excessive suddenly felt more poignant. For her, this wasn’t just about the decorations; it was about reliving a treasured memory and keeping a connection to her past alive. It made me wonder: Is it fair to judge someone for holding onto traditions that bring them joy?
The Emotional Connection to Holiday Traditions
For many people, the holidays aren’t just about the present—they’re a bridge to the past. My MIL’s dedication to her Christmas tree reflects more than a love for holiday décor. It’s a way of honoring her mother and revisiting the warm memories they shared.
The act of decorating a tree might seem trivial to some, but for her, it’s likely a ritual steeped in meaning. It’s her way of preserving family traditions, even as time marches on and life changes around her.
Nostalgia, especially during the holiday season, is a powerful force. It helps us cope with loss, remember loved ones, and celebrate the joy they brought into our lives. For seniors, these rituals can become even more important, serving as a source of comfort and connection.
Is There a ‘Right Age’ to Let Go of Traditions?
One of the thoughts that crossed my mind was whether, at 70, my MIL should still be focusing on elaborate holiday traditions. Shouldn’t she be spending more time with her grandkids or focusing on other family priorities? But as I reflected more, I realized this was a narrow view.
Why should age dictate whether someone can enjoy something they love? Traditions don’t have an expiration date. Whether you’re 7 or 70, if a holiday ritual brings you happiness, it’s worth keeping alive.
In fact, continuing traditions like decorating a Christmas tree can be a way to stay young at heart. It’s a reminder that joy doesn’t have to fade with age and that creating beauty—however small—can be its own reward.
The Financial Side: A Practical Concern or Misplaced Judgment?
I’ll admit, another part of my reaction stemmed from practical concerns. How much did this elaborate display cost? Couldn’t that money have been used for something more “important,” like helping with family expenses or gifts for the grandkids?
But then I thought about it: Who am I to judge how someone else spends their money, especially when it’s tied to something so personal? She worked hard her entire life, and if investing in a Christmas tree makes her happy, isn’t that worth it? The holidays aren’t just about practicality—they’re about creating moments that feel special. For her, this tree might be a way of doing just that.
The Power of Nostalgia: More Than Just Sentimentality
Nostalgia often gets a bad rap as being overly sentimental or “stuck in the past.” But in reality, it serves an important role in our emotional well-being. It helps us reflect on the good times, find meaning in our experiences, and create a sense of continuity in our lives.
For my MIL, decorating that tree isn’t about refusing to move on—it’s about celebrating what was and carrying it forward. It’s her way of keeping a piece of her childhood alive while sharing that joy with the people around her.
Respecting Choices: Empathy Over Judgment
Ultimately, my initial reaction was clouded by my own biases—thinking about what I would do rather than trying to understand her perspective. It’s easy to judge someone else’s choices, especially when they don’t align with our own priorities. But as I thought more about it, I realized that her Christmas tree wasn’t just a decoration—it was a symbol of love, memory, and resilience.
Instead of seeing it as a waste of time or money, I started to see it as a testament to her spirit. Even at 70, she’s still finding ways to celebrate life, embrace joy, and honor her past. That’s something to admire, not criticize.
Conclusion: Finding Meaning in the Little Things
At the end of the day, my MIL’s Christmas tree isn’t just a tree. It’s a labor of love, a connection to her mother, and a celebration of the holiday season. It’s a reminder that traditions, no matter how small or seemingly trivial, can carry profound meaning.
So, rather than judging her choice, I’ve come to respect it. If decorating a tree brings her joy and keeps her connected to her memories, who am I to say it’s “pathetic”? In fact, maybe we could all learn something from her example—about embracing the things that make us happy, no matter our age, and finding beauty in the traditions that shape our lives.
