By this time next week, we will be feeling like we ate waaay too much, and we will start to think ahead to the upcoming holidays (more food! Gifts! Parties! … How will I have time to do it all?!)
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. First, it is uniquely American (Canadian too!), and yet immigrants of all countries adopt it and customize it — growing up, there was always a side of rice or potato salad for example, and now, my husband (French) usually makes a gratin d’epinards (spinach gratin) to go with the turkey, and we always have wine!
Second, it is about family and food. No worries about gift giving or excessive decorating (I do like Xmas decorating!)… ok maybe it’s about excessive eating. We should be grateful for what we have all the time, but this day, you have to think about it!
Make this Thanksgiving extra special by remembering all the good in your life, the roof over your head, the food on your table, your loved ones, health.
Think about the parents who have lost their children, the families who have lost their possessions and homes, the people who struggle to make ends meet and put food on their table.
Think about the parents who have lost their children, the families who have lost their possessions and homes, the people who struggle to make ends meet and put food on their table.
We may all come from different places, and have different sides with our turkey, and look differently, but we are all human. The joy, pain or happiness you feel is the same, no matter how you look, or if you say thank you, gracias, shukran, merci, toda, Grazie, xie xie, Spasiba, or mulțumesc.
This Thanksgiving be especially thankful … In whatever language.
PS. Why not help out a family in need? There are countless opportunities to reach out!Here are a few of ideas:
Scary mommy nation Helps out moms in need. Many moms struggle to our food in their tables or provide for their children.
Adopt a family in Staten Island– prepare care packages for families devastated by superstorm sandy. Check out their Tumblr page: http://www.ittakesafamily.net/
If you can’t afford to give money, Do something free! Donate your time to cleanup efforts, or Donate blood!! (Painless I swear!) If you live in NYC check out NY Blood Center For NJ Blood donations go here: NJ Blood Center
For more ideas, check out The JCC in Manhattan’s FB page dedicated to Sandy Relief efforts! They are constantly updating their page with up-to-date information on different efforts throughout the city!
