In our view, this traditional and almost exclusive American day (Canada celebrates it as well) is one of our best holidays.
We have left behind the trick-or-treaters and have yet to give serious thought to how to pay for all the Christmas gifts coming upon us. No trees or decorations for this holiday. No big parties or series of parties or events demand our time and attention.
Many, though certainly not all, are blessed with a simple assembly of family and/or friends to enjoy a really great meal, watch some football for those who like that sort of thing, take a nap, play with the grandkids, wrap up by a fire with a loved one, maybe take out some old pictures of times past, and sometimes just quietly reflect on our own what our blessings really turn out to be.
For many, those blessings are focused on friends and family. We may remember Thanksgivings with those now gone. We may watch a toddler trying to grasp hold of a finger and try to walk. Some may remember “tough times” and how we survived and even thrived in our hard work to overcome such obstacles. We may think that tough times are in fact upon us now and consider others facing even greater need than our own, and how we can lend a hand.
At least for a day, it is a time for full stomachs, warm thoughts, a timeout from the distractions of everyday life and real or imagined discord. Some, hopefully not many, may engage in heated political discussion around the table, scold a kid making too much noise or running free, burn themselves taking food out of the oven, or face other reminders of life that is not always pleasant or easy.
Timeouts are good things, at least for adults. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
