Giving Thanks Transcends Borders – Growing up in a small town in Belgium, I enjoyed a childhood rich with traditions. My family celebrated holidays from New Year’s Day to Christmas. The holidays were filled with food, family, and gifts of chocolate for the kids, a staple of almost every celebration. I have fond memories of delicious chocolate eggs on Easter and St. Nicholas figurines on December 6. Thanksgiving, however, was not part of our tradition. I had heard about it from American television shows and movies, but I didn’t really understand it. Based on the movies, it seemed like a gathering to air your family grievances and disagreements.
In my mid-twenties, I moved to Tucson, Arizona. The city, filled with towering saguaro cacti and stunning sunsets, offered a stark contrast to my quaint Belgian hometown. As I settled into my new life, I became increasingly aware of holidays I had never experienced. Two stood out. Independence Day and Thanksgiving. Among these and other holidays, people seemed most excited about Thanksgiving. The excitement appeared to surpass that of Christmas.
My first introduction to Thanksgiving came from a friend who invited me to join his family’s celebration. He explained that the holiday was a time to give thanks for the harvest and the blessings of the past year. He shared that the tradition dates back to the early 1600s when Native Americans and Pilgrims celebrated the harvest together. I was intrigued and accepted the invitation to learn more.
On Thanksgiving Day, I arrived at their home and was greeted warmly. The house smelled amazing, and the dining room table was stunning, adorned with fall decorations and a massive cornucopia centerpiece filled with small pumpkins and autumn leaves. The atmosphere was relaxing, and the sense of family and excitement felt familiar. It felt like home.
Before dinner, my friend’s father gathered everyone around the table and asked each person to share something they were thankful for. We all expressed heartfelt statements of gratitude, and I was particularly touched by this. When it was my turn—I was a bit nervous—I expressed my gratitude for the kindness and hospitality of the family, for welcoming me into their tradition, and for helping me understand the meaning of Thanksgiving.
The meal that followed was a revelation. I savored each dish, discovering new flavors and textures. The turkey paired perfectly with the savory stuffing and tart cranberry sauce. At first, the green bean casserole seemed unusual, but it has since become one of my favorite holiday dishes. The sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is still on my list of dishes I don’t quite understand. I had my first slice of pumpkin pie, and it was an amazing end to the meal.
After dinner, everyone gathered in the living room to relax and enjoy each other’s company. We played games, shared stories, and laughed together, further cementing the sense of togetherness and appreciation. I could see why so many people looked forward to this holiday and traveled home to celebrate it with family. That first Thanksgiving cemented the celebration as my favorite holiday across two continents. It wasn’t what I had experienced in the movies, no fighting or screaming, but a heartfelt celebration of gratitude.
“Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”
– Marcel Proust.
Inspired by Thanksgiving, I try to incorporate a spirit of gratitude into my daily life. I wanted to share my practices with you, especially now as we prepare to celebrate the holiday once again.
Gratitude Journaling
I end my day by writing down what I am grateful for that day, whether it was a kind gesture from a colleague, an accomplishment, a delicious meal, the love of a partner, or even a good movie. This practice helps me focus on uplifting moments and sets a positive tone for the next day. I am always grateful for chances and opportunities, my partner and dog, being alive, and for family and friends, in addition to the unique experiences of the day.
Mindful Appreciation
Practicing mindfulness became a daily routine, with moments taken throughout the day to pause and appreciate my surroundings. Whether savoring the taste of my morning espresso, enjoying the view, or relishing a quiet moment in a park, this practice helps maintain a sense of presence and gratitude for the little things.
Thank You Notes
I adopted the habit of writing handwritten thank-you notes to express my appreciation to friends and colleagues. This small act of kindness not only strengthens my relationships but also makes me more aware of the positive impact others have on my life.
Acts of Kindness
I committed to performing random acts of kindness, such as volunteering, being a mentor, and offering a listening ear to someone in need. These acts remind me of the importance of giving back and being grateful for the opportunity to make a difference. My first Thanksgiving in America was more than just a cultural experience; it was a turning point that enriched my perspective on life. The tradition of giving thanks, I realized, was universal, transcending borders and bringing people together. By incorporating these practices into my daily routine, I found myself living a more grateful, fulfilling life, deeply appreciative of the journey I am on.
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