Today marks the beginning of Thanksgiving Break. For some students, this is their first time making the long journey home since move-in day. For others, only a short drive awaits them. While the drive times may differ and the weather is still unpredictable for this time of year, tradition is one common thread that ties many Thanksgiving celebrations together.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “tradition” as “An inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior.” Traditions, whether practiced for generations or created anew in college, are one of the most beautiful things about the Thanksgiving holiday.
“One of my Thanksgiving traditions is going around the table saying what we are thankful for as we eat,” Catrina Cablish said. “Another tradition of mine is that I always help make the apple and pumpkin pies for my family.”
“Typically on Thanksgiving morning it is a tradition that my family and I wake up and watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade together”, Abigail Deck said. “And it’s almost always a tradition that my family will have cinnamon rolls on Thanksgiving morning. It’s so comforting to know that the same traditions will occur every year.”
Some Thanksgiving traditions began decades and decades ago, being passed down through each generation and cherished more and more every holiday. Many students also enjoy creating their own Thanksgiving traditions in their college years – with friends who have become family.
“Growing up, my culture didn’t really celebrate Thanksgiving,” said Jerry Liu. “However, because of my family’s religion, we usually gather at the dinner table and say what we are thankful for. During my freshman year of college, several of my friends gathered at my house, and we cooked a big meal together and had a great time playing football in my backyard. Those were awesome memories.”
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude. This week allows us to slow down and rest, being intentional with and reflecting upon everything we are grateful for.
“I love the intentionality of the holiday,” Liu said. “I take what I have for granted all the time, and I need this to slow down and remember God’s blessings in my life.”
No matter what traditions are practiced over this break or what Thanksgiving looks like for some families this year, these coming days are a time of refreshment. To pause and be thankful for the people, opportunities, and blessings the Lord has graciously given us all. So, enjoy the turkey and the football games, the time with family and friends. Say Grace and practice gratitude.
Happy Thanksgiving, Asbury.