Christmas seasons are always rich in traditions. Families enliven their celebrations with them and so does the family of Christ, the church. Some traditions guide us in what we eat, some in how we pray and what we sing at such a meaningful time of year. Still other traditions envelop us in lights and ornaments and festive color. Then a new year rolls around and we find ourselves looking more ahead than looking back. We make plans for the future and even some resolutions to make that future a better one than our past proved to be. But what are our chances for success? They're a lot better if we build on the good of the past than if we ignore past experiences altogether. We really do have a lot to learn from those who have guided and taught us in the past and enriched our lives with their faith and example.