Historically, I have less of a hard time with Thanksgiving than other holidays. On Thanksgiving, I’m able to pause the busyness of life and focus just on being grateful for all the blessings I have. Even when we feel low, it’s important to remember blessings come in many shapes and sizes. If we are generally healthy, able to get around by ourselves, and can basically do what we choose, then we are blessed!
I realize this year may be especially hard. Escalating COVID cases are making it difficult or impossible to visit family members we usually see around the holidays. Many people feel isolated. This morning, I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of decision making. You see, I don’t like feeling down and depressed. In fact I don’t know anybody that does.
As a kid, I got sick of crap holidays with my parents fighting, my mom going back to bed, tears, drama, guilt. The year I was 14, I decided I was going to have a good holiday even if they were determined not to. I got up early, went into the kitchen, put on some music and started to cook. And when the fighting escalated, I just started singing. I cooked a good Thanksgiving dinner that was traditional, if not large, sat down to eat it and felt proud of myself.
I’ve spoken before about the powerful role decision making plays in creating a good life for yourself (see my FB Live vid Decide who you want to be). Sometimes our environment might be crap, the people around us might be assholes, or the past might try to keep us down. All of life comes with turmoil and some lives come with more than others. But you’ll be amazed at the satisfaction it brings when you decide that the turmoil, whether national, familial, or internal, is not worth your peace.
This year even though travel plans may have to cancel, be careful not to cancel your entire holiday. That will likely result in feeling worse! Instead get up, take your shower, put your favorite music on, and cook all your traditional favorites. Even if there aren’t as many people to eat it, the leftovers will still be good. You won’t have to cook for a few days, and leftovers are the best part of Thanksgiving anyway.
Put up your Christmas tree if it makes you feel better. It might make the house feel festive and cheery. I also like to string some white twinkle lights around my living room window. The warmth of little lights always makes me happy.
If you are missing family gatherings, remember that many options are available to be “alone together.” Give your loved ones a phone call. Facetime or Zoom them. Remember that Facebook Messenger has a video call option and so does Instagram video chat.
Or maybe you’re an introvert who just wants to sit back and enjoy the quieter holiday. Know that however you choose to celebrate is okay. Don’t feel bad or guilty about circumstances you can’t change, and most of all, have a joyful and peaceful holiday!
Kelly, you are very wise… and I needed this! Thank you!
Thank you Abby. I’m so glad you found the post helpful! Thanks so much for leaving feedback.