It’s one of the holidays that has few requirements or obligations.
By Alan Bauer
Thanksgiving is becoming a holiday unlike most other holidays.
First, let’s think about the other holidays. Many of them are stress-inducing and/or costly. You have to buy presents — presents that most likely cost money. And often you’re not certain if the present is something the receiver even wants, but, whatever, you still have to get them a present. Or, with the recently passed Halloween, you have to buy candy and then spend most of the night answering the door. So there’s cost, work and stress with a lot of the other holidays.
Thanksgiving is different. If you’re buying something, it’s usually food-related and, if everyone thinks ahead, an item that will be both expected and appreciated. Uncle John will bring the sweet potatoes. Cousin Ann will bring the pumpkin pie. Etc. A logical and well-thought-out process. No stress about whether your contribution will be well received. No running from store to store. Not a lot of work — especially if you volunteer to bring the soda or adult beverages.
And the day itself? Other than pitching in a bit to help in the kitchen, to set the table or to clean up, there’s not a lot of hard labor — unless your gathering is filled with jerks who refuse to lend a hand, in which case, adjust next year’s Thanksgiving guest list accordingly.
No, most of the day is spent eating, talking with friends and family, maybe watching some TV, and then, of course, more eating. Oh, and a nap mixed in there somewhere. If it sounds like a really great day, that’s because it is.
Even more special, some people, the truly heroic among us, will volunteer to spend Thanksgiving helping others in need have a special meal and day.
This year, as tension seems to be at an all-time high among much of the populace, we really need Thanksgiving. We need a day to be among friends and family to simply eat, drink and be happy — when, hopefully, political talk and other contentious issues are put on the back burner.
Let’s take the day off and relax.
