Traditions Story

Item #329

True Builders of America

(November, 1991) The key to this statue is the embroidered message on the pillow: “Tradition — Pass it on.” Like love, traditions last only when shared with others. This grandmother has unpacked an heirloom quilt made by her grandmother. In time it will be passed on to her granddaughter and together they’re admiring the old fabrics and tiny stitches. There are many other traditions shared in this household: the family photograph albums, a recipe book, and grandmother’s diary. There’s an acorn and leaf above the recipe book, because it is my tradition to include these on my statues. As she grows up, the little girl will want to begin her own traditions for herself and her family. Perhaps her favorite teddy bear will also become an heirloom in the years ahead. But now it’s bedtime, and there’s only time for one last tradition — a goodnight kiss.

Dr. Thomas F. Clark