Halloween is finally over, so you know what that means? Christmas is once again upon us! What used to start the last Friday in November makes its debut before the Halloween decorations are taken down from the big box stores. As wonderful as Christmas is, our rush to celebrate has almost eliminated my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving. I’ll spare you the Charlie Brown-esque lecture on consumerism, but I think we can agree something is happening to my beloved turkey-day. 

It’s sad to see what was once an important holiday in American society get buried beneath the excitement of the other surrounding holidays. Of course, some of that can be attributed to a new understanding of the events surrounding the holiday’s origin. However, I’ll also spare you the lesson on colonialism and the fractured relationship early European settlers had with the indigenous people of these lands. 

While Thanksgiving is still one of the most celebrated holidays in America, with 87-90% of households celebrating in some form, why does it feel as if the holiday no longer has its unique representation? Are capitalism and consumerism really to blame? I’m looking at you, Black Friday. Have we as a society lost our connection to one another and forgotten why we should be thankful?

I’d like to believe that as the world gets busier and we encounter struggle and strife, we are looking towards happier holidays to bring us comfort and joy. After all, what’s more fun than free candy and fantastic presents? 

A Final Thought

Thanksgiving should still be a time to enjoy your family and reflect on the year’s changes. As cliche as it may seem, go around the table and share what you are thankful for with your loved ones. I’d bet you would see how great life is. If that isn’t your style, try writing yourself a letter expressing gratitude for the fantastic things in your life. Simply put, be thankful for what you have and where you are going. I’m thankful for my wonderful daughter, my amazing family, my beautiful girlfriend, and all of our fantastic followers. 

What are the things you’re most thankful for this year?