Editorial- Thanksgiving: The most overlooked holiday but yet probably the most important one

Let’s be honest for a moment. Thanksgiving is an often-overlooked holiday. After Halloween has passed by and all the candy in the stores go on sale Nov. 1, most people turn their attention to the Christmas season. In fact, Black Friday is probably more on the radar than Thanksgiving.

But I am going to deduce a theory that a few people may have thought of but probably never could put the dots together; Thanksgiving is probably the most holiday we have to date.

With all due respect to the Fourth of July’s and the New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving is that holiday where traditions continue to remain strong. For many families, it means turkeys on the table, stuffing on the side, and Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions football hogging the television screen for six hours. For those avid to brave the cool weather and the outdoors, hunting in the morning hours signify a day to share with those we care about. But Thanksgiving is that holiday where most of us actually do sit at the table as a family. We take time to reflect about the blessings that have been bestowed upon us, and also where we have come from to where we are today.

Thanksgiving is a reflection and a kick-starter for the remaining holidays on the year as well. Don’t believe me? Well as I mentioned earlier, Black Friday is the next day and that signifies the beginning of the Christmas season. Still don’t believe me? After having that big meal on Thanksgiving, many people began to question their weight (trust me, I’ve done it as well). From that point, New Year’s resolutions are pondered, and our future goals are set in those few moments.

This Thanksgiving, we should take those opportunities not only to reflect, but pray for those in need. Let’s be honest, 2019 hasn’t been a very pleasant year with families and friends in the New Kent and Charles City area losing loved ones. Our prayers can be their comfort, and our love can be their love.

Let’s be thankful this season by showing others gratitude during this holiday. We have a lot to be grateful for, but let’s not gloat about it. Instead, let’s pass it on to someone else.