Reflecting on Changing Holiday Traditions

As we move through different stages of life, the way we celebrate holidays inevitably evolves. I often find myself reminiscing about the lively Thanksgiving gatherings from years past, where the table was surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, and the unmistakable aroma of my grandpa’s stuffing and homemade gravy filled the air. Those moments were loud, chaotic, and brimming with laughter, creating cherished memories that linger.

I remember my mom rising early, preparing stuffing at 4:30 a.m. and promptly placing the turkey in the oven. Even now, I wonder why the turkey had to go in so early—were ovens less powerful, did turkeys in the 1970’s weigh 40 lbs., or did we simply eat earlier back then? These questions remain, adding to the nostalgia of those holiday mornings.

Embracing Change and Nostalgia

Today, the holiday table has empty seats, and feelings of nostalgia and longing for just one more celebration with everyone together often surface. The same China we used four decades ago still adorns the table, and familiar dishes remain. Yet, my stuffing never quite matches my grandpa’s, and my mom’s apple pies far surpassed the store-bought versions I might serve now. Thanksgiving looks very different from what it once was.

Letting Go of Comparison

It’s natural to reflect on traditions and notice what has changed—the empty chairs and the differences that now exist. However, dwelling in comparison between the present and the past, or measuring our experience against other families, social media, and societal expectations, can prevent us from appreciating the beauty of the current moment. Remember, different does not mean better or worse, it just means not the same, and that is o.k. This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to embrace the idea that “this year is allowed to look like this.” Resist the urge to compare, and instead, stay present and let the day unfold as it will.

Finding Gratitude in the Present

In the spirit of embracing what is, consider creating new rituals or simple acts of togetherness that resonate with your current situation, whether it’s sharing a quiet meal, spending some time in nature, calling a loved one, or taking a moment for reflection. Allow yourself to lean into the warmth of connection, however it shows up, and trust that meaningful experiences can be found in unexpected ways. By letting go of expectations and honoring what feels genuine, this Thanksgiving can become a gentle reminder that gratitude is not bound to tradition, but to the presence we bring to each moment.

Whatever your Thanksgiving holiday looks like this year, I hope the day is filled with moments that you truly notice and appreciate—they will be there, waiting to be experienced.

You can find a sensory gratitude tool in this website’s Resource section to help you stay present and notice your beautiful moments this holiday season.