What Thanksgiving Means to Me

Photo credit: Pinterest

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday to me, it’s a time to reflect, reconnect, and rejoice. As the year begins to grow, this day becomes a space for gratitude and togetherness, reminding me of the simple yet profound joys in life. 

Growing up, Thanksgiving was always a special time in my household. It was the one day when everyone set aside their busy schedules to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and, of course, an incredible meal. To me, Thanksgiving represents a blend of tradition and spontaneity—a time when old memories are cherished and new ones are created.

The Meaning of Gratitude

At the heart of Thanksgiving is gratitude. It’s a day that prompts me to pause and reflect on the blessings in my life. Whether it’s the love of family and friends, personal growth, or even the challenges that have shaped me. 

Thanksgiving gives me a reason to acknowledge it all. Gratitude is something I try to carry beyond just the holiday, but there’s something magical about having a day dedicated to it. I also love how Thanksgiving inspires collective gratitude. Hearing what my loved ones are thankful for often puts my own blessings into perspective and deepens my appreciation for the people in my life.

Festive Food

No Thanksgiving is complete without the feast, and it’s one of my favorite parts of the holiday! The aroma of roasted turkey, ham, mac and cheese, and sweet potato pies wafting through the house instantly fills me with joy. While I love every dish on the table, there’s always something special about the family recipes passed down through generations.  

In my family, the highlight is my grandmother’s dishes, and no one can make it quite like her. Sitting down to enjoy this meal together is not just about the food but also about the love and effort that goes into preparing it. 

Festive Traditions I Cherish

Some of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions have little to do with the meal itself. Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a staple in my house. My mother usually had Christmas movies, music, and the parade playing in the background as she prepared dinner for my siblings and I. There’s something magical about seeing the floats, performers, and holiday spirit on full display.

Another tradition I truly enjoy is Black Friday. While it has changed significantly over the years, the stories I’ve heard about Black Friday sales were always either hilariously wild or shockingly chaotic. These days, great deals are often just a click away through online shopping, making it easier to snag a bargain. However, I can’t help but miss the nostalgia of walking into stores, seeing the ridiculously long lines, and witnessing the frenzy of shoppers battling it out for the best deals!

The Beauty of Togetherness

What I love most about Thanksgiving is the togetherness. It’s rare to have a day where everyone is fully present, without the distractions of work, school, or daily responsibilities. Thanksgiving creates a space to reconnect and deepen bonds, even with those I don’t see often. 

Whether it’s catching up on life, wheezing in laughter at childhood stories, or simply sitting in comfortable silence while watching a movie at my grandma’s house, it’s these moments of connection that mean the most to me.  For me, Thanksgiving isn’t just a holiday—it’s a reminder to embrace gratitude, cherish loved ones, and find joy in the simplest of things. As I celebrate this year, I’m looking forward to the traditions, the laughter, and the warmth that this special day always brings.  

Photo credit: Drazen Zigic

What does Thanksgiving mean to you? Let’s celebrate the beauty of gratitude and togetherness in all its forms! I strongly encourage all Ribbon readers to embrace gratitude during this season, especially as many face challenges like heightened seasonal depression and ongoing political and economic struggles worldwide. This time of year can be especially tough for many, so extending grace and kindness to others—with Christmas just around the corner—is both essential and free. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!