Giving Thanks to Those We Love

Between Halloween and Christmas, there is a short but steep drop in festive spirit. Perhaps it is because the traditional Thanksgiving mascots are confusing. Pilgrims do not inspire excitement in the hearts of children. And when you see happy pictures of turkeys all month, a day dedicated to eating the bird can feel morbid. You may also be eating crow when you look at your next cartoon turkey and see through their painted-on smile.

    Real birds have beaks. Real birds do not smile. You may experience a seasonal sadness when big businesses announce sales sooner and sooner after Thanksgiving dinner. Some families may skip time around the table together to fight other families over televisions being sold at low prices.

    During this confusing holiday, perhaps the best way to celebrate is getting back to the basics. What ever happened to loved ones spending a day together just to agree that life is okay? Look around. Things could be significantly worse. This Thanksgiving, we should stop waiting for one day a year to roll around so we can give thanks. Grab a cup of pumpkin spice whatever and count the things you appreciate in your life.

    One way to do this is to grab a book and read to the little ones in your life. It can significantly help their reading comprehension, and they will love the one-on-one time with you. Some of my favorites are: “When Sophie Gets Angry -- Really, Really Angry...” by Molly Bang, “No, David!” by David Shannon, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” by Laura Joffe Numeroff, and “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak.

    You can also pick one up for the book-lover in your life. Give them a copy of your favorite book. Write an inscription on the inside cover to add a personal touch. It is a very thoughtful and inexpensive gift. 

    Another way to show your gratitude is through the gift of food. Thanksgiving is often seen as being synonymous with casseroles and delicious treats. While you are cooking for your family, make an extra dish for the person on your mind and in your heart. A plate of cookies can warm you from the inside out. And the quickest way to someone’s heart is through the stomach.

    If that’s a little out of your budget so close to the Christmas season, try sending a letter. It is called a lost art for a reason. Maybe someone has been there for you recently or you know someone dealing with a lot. Taking the time to write to someone can mean more than you may know.  If you like the idea of this but do not know that person’s mailing address, an email or text can also be a simple and easy way to let someone know that they are on your mind.

    If all else fails, just tell them. When was the last time you directly said to someone, “Thank you for everything you do. You are such a blessing in my life.”? Can you imagine if someone said that to you? It is such a wonderful, beautiful, big thing to do.

    Don’t worry about creating an awkward moment. Maybe the person you are opening up to is just waiting for an opportunity to talk to you, too. You can start a conversation with someone who genuinely cares about you, and that is beautiful.

So, this November, if your pumpkin pie burns or your hands get cold waiting in herds outside of superstores for the next iPhone/iPad/or Apple Watch, turn to the person next to you and tell them Happy Thanksgiving in the best way, by giving thanks.