subject: Growing Up In A Greek Household [print this page] Greece has also kept up with global modernization as the nation has also transformed and has become more contemporary. However there are some things that still remain important in a Greek family.
In many cities, like Athens for instance, it is no longer a common sight to see young children playing outside as their mothers stand around and talk to each other. There are now issues on safety, although several parents and children still gather in local parks.
There is a very special Greek tradition and that is the evening stroll. Families, relatives and friends all go on these relaxing strolls around squares and streets, and as they walk unhurriedly, they talk about events in their lives or even gossip. As people get their share of fresh air on these nighttime strolls, youll also notice groups of young men and women. Its quite amusing to watch as the young men try to get the attention of the ladies. As for families, most Greeks belong to extended families. Ties among relatives are very close and a lot of kids are on familiar terms with most of their relatives. With a family structure like this, its not uncommon to experience a bit of meddling since the Greeks often take part in the lives of their family members.
In Greece, the women are labeled as the family managers, so to speak. Women take great pride in maintaining households and caring for the young ones. Greek women are also great homemakers, and part of this is preparing great food for the family. For a Greek moms home-style cooking, dont pass up the opportunity to check out Nikos Taverna. There you will soon come to appreciate the amount of love and skill that Greek mothers give to cooking meals. Without the fast food of the modern day Greek children enjoy a healthy diet.
The process of developing into adults is the same for all children. As they develop, they go to school, to church and they even go to social events with family and friends. Once you grow up you go to college, go traveling or get a job, and get married.
One thing that sets the Greek apart from others is the respect and importance that they give to family. Through our families, we learn about patriotism and respecting our nation. This is also where we gain knowledge about tradition and culture and how to preserve such for future generations. The family also equips us with social graces that we need when we mingle with people in society. People these days are enamored by modern devices, such as televisions and computers. Yet, there are those who pray and hope that what is great about Greek traditions will hold and will remain as they are.
