By David Tepera November 21, 2023
Yes, Thursday is Thanksgiving to which there’s a variety of experiences for each of us. Not everyone is fortunate to have a family feast tradition, but if not, volunteer and make a difference in others’ lives.
For those who have the wonderful experience of gathering with family members each year, remember, the family hosting is usually over-stressed. They want this to be a happy memory for all to take with them, so the preparation can be overwhelming.
Here’s my little advice from all the years of our Thanksgiving holidays. I’m sure most of you do this, but the biggest help you can give to the host is helping with the cleanup. Teach your young children to put their dishes away and take out the trash, get the teenagers to clean the dishes and have men fold chairs and tables and put them away. Bottom line, before everyone leaves, make sure the house is in order.
I promise, if you’ve ever hosted a big family event, besides all the cooking, it’s the cleanup that’s most stressful.
Other than that, take this family moment to embrace and love each other. You never know who might not be there the following year. It’s a festive time to let go of all the craziness that’s going on in the world, and create wonderful memories. This is what you will be thankful for.
My mom hosted Thanksgiving my entire life until dad’s passing a few years ago. Tina and I decided to take over and relieve the stress off mom. We are now the new tradition, and we love hosting family and friends. It will consist of cousins, siblings, parents, grandparents and more. It’s a wonderful time for all of us.
Not everyone has family to spend with, but what’s your tradition? What are you thankful for?
For some reason, if you’re feeling down, go for a walk. Look to the skies with a smile and go through a list of happiness. Smile at strangers and make this world a better place. Create your own tradition that makes a difference to others.
The holiday season is upon us, so embrace it and recognize all there is to be thankful for.