I think the concept behind Thanksgiving is silly. Yes, yes I’m well aware of the historic reference, and I get that the cartoons of the White Europeans and Indians coming together to feast on some salted turkey probably tickles a lot of individuals hearts around this time. However, why do we celebrate? Now, today. Besides the nostalgia- what is our rhyme and reason?

As you sit across from your great grandmother this holiday season and stare too long at her wrinkled face, or glance at your cousins and wonder which one of you will get married first--I’m going to have to ask you to stop. Stop and really take it in.

Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter--none of these holidays truly mean much anymore in today’s society. Thanksgiving is just a gateway to Black Friday, where honestly, families are just torn apart because of retail work schedules and the price reduction of this season's hottest toy.

Christmas is just an article of gluttony where we allow ourselves to splurge and buy the next best thing. But, that is not the point. I understand that society has dragged us into this buyer's market, that the new iPhone has two cameras, and that Thanksgiving mashed potatoes are something we wait all year for--but that isn’t us. We are not the almost 5,000 ads that the average American sees in a day. We are not every coupon and catalog that runs through our mailbox. We are human--we were made to appreciate the love that surrounds us, the love that pulsates, the love that nurtures.

So this holiday season, I’m asking you all to take the time to think: think about your family, and friends first. Send messages to the loved ones that may be hurting, knowing that the ones they hold near and dear may only be around their table in spirit. Think about those struggling to provide for their family, while trying to get by in general. Don’t think twice about slipping some extra change to the volunteer ringing his or her bell outside of you local super-mart. While you walk down the store aisles remember that everyone that you pass by is living a life full of their own struggles, and everyone needs some “holiday cheer”, be patient.

This week when you go around the table and say what you’re thankful for, do not wait until that moment to acknowledge your family and friends, do not wait until christmas morning to let a material object express your appreciation. Being thankful takes all year, being considerate is not that hard, and being kind--well, that's a lesson we all could work on.

I will end with this.

This year I am thankful for my Mother, for wearing so many hats I cannot keep track of, and for being the epitome of strength and guidance. To my Father, for giving me a life that at times I often feel as though I do not deserve. To you Both, for supporting my every dream, no matter how crazy or out of the norm it is. I am thankful for my Sister for showing me what hard work, perseverance, and acceptance looks like. Thank you for being my go-to during this holiday season, when I need someone to be sarcastic with and when the family dynamic becomes suffocating. I am thankful for my Grandfather for showing up and being present in my life even though some days I know it’s hard for him to fathom the loss of my Grandmother. I’m thankful for all of the family both near and far that though I may not see often, you show your support and send your prayers to my family and I on a daily basis.

Finally, I’m thankful for my friendships I’ve created in this lifetime thus far. Thank you for always picking me up, and to those of you who have it especially hard this holiday season, know that I am constantly thinking of you, rooting for you, and here if you need anyone or anything.

Dear Lord, my love is yours; let you guide, let you inspire, and let you see the thankfulness that surrounds us all even though sometimes we forget to show it. Amen.