When I lived in Italy, Thanksgiving was something I only encountered in movies or American TV shows. It seemed to revolve around a turkey dinner, family gatherings, and gratitude. Yet, its deeper meaning felt distant and almost elusive.
To me, Thanksgiving appeared like a stripped-down version of Christmas – without gifts, tree decorations, or carols. It was hard to grasp the essence of this holiday through a screen. Little did I know that moving to the United States would change my perspective entirely.
Our first Thanksgiving in America
Not long after moving to the U.S., we were invited by dear friends to celebrate Thanksgiving with their family. That evening, I experienced the true spirit of the holiday for the first time. Being surrounded by laughter, stories, and the warmth of people who welcomed us into their lives as though we were family left an indelible mark on my heart.
Thanksgiving wasn’t about the food – although the turkey, stuffing, and pies were undeniably delicious. It was about togetherness, gratitude, and the simple joy of sharing moments with others. Sitting around their table, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging and appreciation for the generosity of our friends.
Creating our own Thanksgiving traditions
In the years that followed, Thanksgiving became a cherished part of our family’s life in America. Most years, we were lucky to be invited into the homes of various friends. However, one year, we decided to host our own celebration. Marco, with his growing enthusiasm for cooking, wanted to create a Thanksgiving dinner with an international twist.
Our table featured traditional American dishes like turkey and cranberry sauce, but we added British and Italian flavors as well. It was a delightful fusion of cultures, and the day felt both familiar and fresh. It reminded me that traditions can evolve and adapt, reflecting who we are and where we come from. That year, we started a new family tradition that lives on in our own unique way.
A special ritual
One of my favorite Thanksgiving moments is the gratitude circle. Before the meal begins, everyone takes a turn sharing something they’re thankful for. Each year, I am struck by how life changes and grows, as reflected in these simple yet profound words of gratitude.
It is not just about expressing appreciation for the big things – like health, family, or achievements – but also the little joys that shape our lives. Whether it is the sound of laughter, the embrace of a friend, or even a moment of stillness, this ritual highlights the beauty in everything we often take for granted.
Thanksgiving vs. Christmas
Thanksgiving feels vastly different from Christmas to me. While Christmas often brings the rush of shopping, decorating, and planning, Thanksgiving has a slower, more intentional rhythm. It is less about the external trappings and more about simply being.
I also recognize how fortunate I have been to always be a guest during Thanksgiving, which allows me to fully immerse myself in its essence without the pressure of hosting. Yet, even as a guest, I have observed how the focus isn’t on perfection – it is on connection. Conversations flow easily, laughter fills the room, and everyone feels at ease.
Thanksgiving and gratitude in an Italian context
In Italy, we don’t have an official holiday dedicated to gratitude. But as I reflect on Thanksgiving, I realize that my Italian roots have always nurtured a culture of togetherness and appreciation. Back home, weekly dinners with family – Tuesday evenings at my parents’ house and Sunday lunches with Pietro’s family – were our own version of Thanksgiving.
When I return to Italy now, those meals feel even more special. They’re a time to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate simply being together. In a way, every gathering around the table becomes a moment of gratitude, reminding me of the beauty in life’s simplest pleasures.
Time to pause and reflect
One of the aspects I admire most about Thanksgiving is how it invites us to pause in the middle of our busy lives. It is a day to step back, take stock of the year, and recognize all the good things – both big and small.
For me, practicing gratitude is not just a yearly exercise but an ongoing journey. It’s taught me to find balance, appreciate life’s everyday gifts, and acknowledge how even challenging moments can bring growth. Thanksgiving aligns beautifully with this mindset, offering a collective opportunity to reflect and connect.
The kitchen: where Thanksgiving comes alive
While the turkey is undoubtedly the star of the show, what I truly cherish is the time spent in the kitchen before the meal. There is something magical about the hum of activity – appetizers being prepped, the turkey roasting in the oven, and friends and family gathering in the heart of the home.
In these moments, stories are shared, jokes are exchanged, and memories are made. For us, some of the people we see at Thanksgiving are friends we only meet once a year. Catching up on the highlights of their lives and sharing our own becomes a joyful ritual. It is a reminder of how much we have to be grateful for and how important it is to nurture these connections.
Thanksgiving as a lesson in gratitude
At its core, Thanksgiving has taught me to appreciate the little things – smiles, hugs, and the unspoken bonds that bring us together. It is a day that reminds us to celebrate not just the joys of the present but also the people and experiences that have shaped our journey.
As we gather around the table this year, I’ll once again be grateful for the friendships, laughter, and love that have enriched our lives. I’ll reflect on how far we have come and look forward to the many moments of gratitude yet to come.
A new chapter in our Thanksgiving story
This year, for the third time, we’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving with dear friends who have become like family. I am already looking forward to the laughter, the stories, and the warmth of their home. Each Thanksgiving adds a new chapter to our story.
Whether it’s around a table in America or at a family dinner in Italy, I have learned that gratitude is a universal language – one that connects us all, no matter where we are.
Thanks for hanging out with me today!
See you next time.
Valentina
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