Amidst the global pandemic, Thanksgiving seems more salient than ever. In the interim of a constant state of panic and the angst of the unknown, it is all the more important for us to take time and celebrate what we are grateful for now more than ever.
Though shared every year at my family dinner whilst we take turns briefing what we are giving thanks to, a newfound value has been added to the appreciation of our health. Taking into consideration the amount of families who have empty chairs at their table during this year’s festivities emanating from the copious amount of loss from the coronavirus as well as the toll quarantine took on many, medical and mental well-being is pivotal this year when counting our blessings.
In addition to this, we must remember the newly-restored cherish we find when we are able to see our loved ones. Many have gone through a long period of time not seeing friends and family, so when given the opportunity, we find a greater sense of joy in it, remembering how valuable these moments are and acknowledging how quickly this privilege can be withdrawn. We also are more appreciative of the friendships that survived this chaotic time and those who remained in touch even when unable to meet in-person.
During quarantine, it was easy to feel as if the things offering structure into our lives were slowly being stripped away. Given the holiday, we must remember to give thanks for things such as our hobbies, work, and school. As a dancer myself, I remember how odd it felt going from being at the studio daily to performing for my laptop in my cramped basement. This is the situation with many sports and group activities that once took place in person that we may have forgotten were so significant to us before they moved virtual or were put on pause. We remember these passions and their vital impact to our happiness during our celebrations. Interestingly enough, many will be giving thanks to school this holiday season. Though many had nothing but complaints about school pre-pandemic, students all over miss the schedule and structure in-person classes offered and the advantage that meeting with a teacher face-to-face provided since Zoom classes have proven to be exceedingly difficult. With all this, one of the biggest things to be thankful for is being able to have dinner at all. Food on the table and a roof overhead has always been a blessing, but countless have found themselves unemployed and their families struggling to maintain their lives following the shut down of many businesses. Being in a position where we are able to celebrate Thanksgiving is something we should be exceptionally grateful for and do our best to include loved ones who may not be in the same position.
Though we should always be grateful for these luxuries, the pandemic has certainly opened our eyes and reminded us that Thanksgiving is not just a part of the yearly routine, but a time to reflect on all the good in our lives after much of it was taken from us.