All leftovers, if any, are safely stored in the fridge. The stemware is cleaned, dried, then put away for the next occasion. Pots and pans are washed, dried and allowed to dry in the dish drainer. The dishes are now ready to be placed in the dishwasher. The floors have been swept and tables and countertops have been cleaned.
The guests have returned home with a warm glow and a desire to return.
Before the house settles into its routine, there is a quiet, soft comfort.
It’s customary to spend time at Thanksgiving to give thanks. However, I find it more common to do this after the fact. It’s not easy to create and carry out a Thanksgiving dinner. After everyone has gone and my host responsibilities are completed, I find that I am more reflective about the holiday. This is when I can sit back and remember the wonderful and sometimes bizarre moments that made Thanksgiving special for me.
My thoughts drift broadly as I reflect on the Thanksgiving celebration. They touch on the global — realizing the incredible bounty of our family, which filled the fridge to the brim even with leftovers, was not an experience that is universal and that so many people went hungry that night as they did on many other nights.
They are spiritual. I am amazed at the ability of the planet to produce the delicious zucchini I sauteed, and the chocolate chips that made chocolate chip brownies.
They are lightening on the political. I am grateful for the ability to have very lively political discussions, which often mock and challenge our elected leaders without fear of reprisals.
They touch my thoughts most deeply and affectionately – I am an empty-nester and I am especially grateful for the time that I get to spend my family. It is expanding to include new members. They are all so smart, funny, and love each other. How insane. Their laughter fills the rooms, even after they have left the house and returned to their lives. As they are recovering from the feast, I can see their bodies spread out immobilely across the living room. As each one contributed to the creation of this event, I can feel their support. Again, I hear their laughter as they come together lovingly and take great pleasure in each others company. There is so much laughter, teasing, and kindness.
And I am grateful.
Gratitude should not be restricted to one meal. It should be a continuous event. It is important to take time to notice the things you are grateful for, both for your health and your relationships. Pay attention to the people in your daily life. Not only their imperfections and flaws, but also their contributions to your life. There will always be other opportunities to notice the negatives.
We are fed when we take the time to reflect on our lives and express gratitude. We become closer to those who are important in our lives when we reflect on the blessings they bring. These moments nurture us, and so are our relationships.
Thanksgiving – The holiday that keeps giving, if you let it.
