Happy Thanksgiving
A Time to Celebrate and Remember
Thanksgiving is a holiday of gratitude, a day dedicated to appreciating the blessings in our lives—our families, friends, and the simple joys that make life meaningful. As we gather around the table, laden with golden-brown turkeys, fluffy mashed potatoes, and the sweetness of pumpkin pie, it’s also a time when many of us feel the presence of those who are not physically with us. Loved ones who have passed on, family members far away, or friends we’ve grown apart from—they leave an indelible mark on our hearts.
This Thanksgiving, let’s honor those absences, celebrating their impact on our lives while embracing the warmth of the present.
Keeping Memories Alive at the Table
Thanksgiving rituals are rooted in history, culture, and shared experiences. When someone important to us is missing, their absence can feel profound. Yet, their memory often finds ways to join us:
To pass on the memories we can do many things, such as:
Share Their Stories: Set aside time during the meal to share favorite memories of loved ones who are not present. A funny story, a life lesson, or a cherished Thanksgiving tradition they brought to life can fill the room with their spirit.
Cook Their Recipes: Food has a magical way of bridging the past and present. Preparing a dish they loved or always made can spark memories and create a sense of connection.
Set a Place for Them: Symbolically reserving a chair at the table, a small gesture like lighting a candle in their honor, or creating a remembrance space can make their presence tangible.
Carry Forward Their Traditions: Whether it’s their habit of volunteering, the way they gave the Thanksgiving toast, or their love of pumpkin pie with extra whipped cream, continuing these traditions can be a meaningful tribute.
Gratitude in Absence
While the ache of missing loved ones can weigh heavy, Thanksgiving also invites us to express gratitude for the time we shared with them. Their laughter, wisdom, and love have shaped us in countless ways. Reflecting on what they brought to our lives allows us to celebrate their legacy.
Embracing the Present
Loss teaches us to cherish the here and now. Thanksgiving is a perfect moment to focus on the people around us—both family and friends—and strengthen those bonds. A warm hug, shared laughter, or even just sitting quietly together holds significance in a way we might not always recognize.
Grief and gratitude are not opposites; they coexist and often enhance one another. Thanksgiving gives us space to hold both—to miss what we’ve lost while cherishing what remains. This duality deepens our appreciation for the people at our table and the memories of those who once sat beside us.
So, this Thanksgiving, let’s honor our loved ones by keeping their light alive in our hearts. Let’s share their stories, laugh at their jokes, and live the way they taught us to—with kindness, resilience, and joy. In doing so, we ensure that while their seat may be empty, their spirit will forever be part of the feast.
Happy Thanksgiving.
