A Celebration of Gratitude

As autumn sets in, families across the United States anticipate the arrival of Thanksgiving Day. This cherished holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, is a time for gratitude, and the coming together of loved ones. Thanksgiving has evolved over the years, giving rise to various traditions that make this day truly special for families and communities in Waukee. Whether it be with family, friends, or neighbors, the holiday and its activities signify high value for many individuals. 

The spirit of Thanksgiving extends beyond the dinner table. For many, holidays such as Thanksgiving are a chance to see relatives and friends you don’t see daily. One sophomore at Waukee High School, Katrina Le shares “My favorite memory of Thanksgiving is when I was at one of my aunt’s houses with all of my cousins around the kid’s table. We had a variety of foods around the table and hung out with each other since we usually only meet up for holidays”. This aspect of the holiday is something to look forward to every year for many. Although every community celebrates differently, families around the country share similar traditions. Ananya Halder, a junior at Waukee High School shares a “familiar and simple tradition” around the Thanksgiving season, stating “Every Thanksgiving, my family and our closest friends come together to share a heartwarming evening. We enjoy a good meal, engage in lively conversation, and share plenty of smiles and laughter”.

While many families live in a closer radius to one another, Thanksgiving is also commonly a time when people travel around to meet their families for the holiday. A sophomore at Waukee High School, Aisha Newland, shares one of her “all-time favorite holidays” and her memories of traveling. “I remember when I was 12 years old, my father and I traveled to Alabama to cook and visit family. That Thanksgiving we had the best dinner.” Newland says. Whether by car, plane, or train, the travels of people during the season show the importance of being together and sharing gratitude. 

Thanksgiving is more than just a day on the calendar; it is a celebration that weaves together connection, and generosity within communities. As we gather around the table with loved ones and share in the traditions that make this day special, it is important to not forget the importance of expressing gratitude in our daily lives. Thanksgiving stands as a testament to the enduring power of thankfulness to bring joy, unity, and an overall appreciation for all the experiences and blessings that life has to offer.