Thanksgiving is generally a time of togetherness and celebration. Family and friends catch up on months and perhaps years gone past and enjoy the feeling of belonging. For many it’s also a time of reflection. Most of us take a moment to ponder the meaning of life and the precious gift of love.
In my own reflection I have made even more strides towards the goal of simplicity. I’m assessing those things that are essential and what frustrations I can eliminate from my life. I continue the process of removing needless mental and physical clutter.
Traditions are important during the holiday season. As I watch my mother preparing the meal as she has always done, her determination to keep this tradition alive, in spite of her lack of energy at the hands of radiation treatment, is monumental. The food that she’s preparing will never be on the Food Network or listed in a magazine. But to us, her key ingredient, love, is what makes the day together and the food we share more important than status or recognition. We take that love with us as we go back to our busy lives. The secret is to remember it not just during the holiday season, but throughout the year.
Happy Thanksgiving!