This year, it seemed as though many of the references to "Thanksgiving" as an actual holiday were simply meant to give life to the day that most Americans set aside to eat good, enjoy family, and prepare for shopping on Black Friday. I must admit, I found myself reluctant to truly celebrate the day, and instead focused on making the most of the day.
My 3 younger kids asked me to explain what we were celebrating, and I found myself attempting to explain the holiday in the most politically correct way possible. I like to be real with my kids but also teach them to be very objective and inspire them to think critically. With that said, my explanation to them was that today was a day for us to celebrate new beginnings, family gathering, appreciation and resting from hard work. Of course, this differed from what they and many of us were taught in school. We all know the whole story. And while I'm not up for debating facts and rewriting history, I do want to be clear in showing how things and traditions may grow and develop into something good. Today is GOOD.
There was something I posted on social media today, that I think sums up how I plan to move forward with the holiday of Thanksgiving, kinda:
"Today, focus on BEing Thankful just BEcause. We may appreciate all things, but try learning to BE the Cause of your own happiness."
Whatever you choose to celebrate, however you choose to celebrate, use the energy of the day to renew, relax and reclaim your time for the people and things that matter to you the most. As for me and my family, we are skipping the crazy rush of Black Friday shopping in the stores and instead opting to do some online shopping with our Wellness Club manufacturer. Don't feel like you must feel obligated to do the mad store rush tonight or tomorrow morning. Believe it or not, there are many families who are choosing not to follow suit this year. You would not be alone if you chose otherwise.