Print

E-mail

Text

How quickly autumn crept upon us and Thanksgiving arrived at our door. The accompanying crispness in the air, the vivid fall leaves and ever-predictable thought 'Where did the summer go?' are all top of mind, and right on schedule, as we head into the long weekend.

Most may mark the holiday with a feast - traditional turkey or modern alternatives like tofurkey - time spent with family and friends, and, for those of us who celebrate with an annual over-indulgence, an idle nap on the couch.

As with the agricultural world, autumn is the time to reap the fruits of our labour and Thanksgiving is our chance to reflect upon our personal bounty and be grateful for all that we have. It's an opportunity to review the year that's passed and give appreciation for our health, fortunes and goodwill. Yet, how many of us take the time for that reflection?

Many find it difficult to pause, living in a society that compels us to multi-task, to become text-messaging drones, and to transform ourselves into super-consumers, super-parents and super-employees. Thanksgiving becomes another thing-to-do, another grocery list, another time-management item and we often forget to slow down and remember that it's more than just another day off work.

Be wary of seeming rushed and indifferent towards the holiday, as it'll soon rub off on your guests.

Working that appreciation back into the holiday can be as simple as asking everyone around the table what they're thankful for. Or including the entire family in the meal preparation and cleanup. After the meal, resist the urge to retire to the couch for the football game and instead, take a walk with the family. Talk about the year's achievements and ask everyone what their goals are for the next year.

This is a time we should remind ourselves not to take our good fortune for granted. To drive that point home, why not find time to help others in need, right here in our own community? Many of Etobicoke's emergency shelters and churches organize special Thanksgiving dinners for the homeless and may need volunteers to help cook or serve meals. Collect canned goods and non-perishable items from your neighbours, or ask your guests to bring some to your dinner and drop them off at the Daily Bread Food Bank. Conduct a fall purge of your family's closets and take gently used clothing to the Salvation Army.

Thanksgiving is about more than turkey, football and a day off of work and all it usually takes is a little perspective to remember that.