Nov 27

Grateful Hearts, Small Gatherings: A Peaceful Thanksgiving

photo of woman throwing up fall leaves in the air

When Thanksgiving comes around, we tend to think of the traditionally large family gathering; the kind you see paraded on television around this time of year. Thanksgiving doesn't have to be a grand affair with a large gathering if that is not what you want. As someone who grew up in a country where Thanksgiving wasn't celebrated, it took some time to appreciate the holiday. I have learned to embrace the intended spirit of Thanksgiving—family and food. For over ten years, I have chosen to celebrate with just my immediate family, my mother and stepdad. You can still create a warm and meaningful experience, minus the unwanted interactions and insane amount of cleaning. If you're celebrating with just immediate family or alone, you are in good company. Here are a few ways to enjoy small gatherings for a peaceful Thanksgiving.

Small Family Thanksgiving

a mother, father, a little boy and a little girl sitting at the dinner table eating thanksgiving dinner

Keep it Simple

Don't feel pressured to prepare a full Thanksgiving feast. We create a smaller meal with a few of our favorite dishes that are just as satisfying. We also forgo the turkey, because for a family of four and sometimes six, it is just too much. We indulge in a roasted chicken and or leg of lamb.

Focus on Quality Time

Use this opportunity to connect with your small family. Share stories, play games, or just relax together. Get members to contribute to making the celebration, especially children so that they feel like they are part of the celebration. My daughters love baking, so they will be on cake duty.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Decorate your home with festive touches, light some candles, and play soft music to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Continue to make home a safe space where everyone feels that they are a priority. This year my daughter wants to play a piece on her violin which I can't wait to hear.

Thanksgiving Alone

A woman sitting at a table eating alone and smiling

Treat Yourself

Indulge in your favorite foods, watch a movie, or read a good book. Enjoy the fact that you are not in a situation of forced interactions with people you may not want to be around. Whether it wasn't by choice that you're celebrating alone, use this time to enjoy your own company. You are your own best friend.

Volunteer

Give back to your community by volunteering at a local shelter or food bank. Whatever way you choose to offer your time, this is a great opportunity to redirect your focus into helping others. This gives you an opportunity to feel part of a community while doing an act of service that is rewarding.

Connect with Others

Arrange phone calls or video chats with friends and family. Though you may not be in the same space, city or even country as your with ones, you can connect with them by other means. Family is where the love is present, so keep cultivating these relationships even though you're far away.

Practice Gratitude

Take time to reflect on the things you're grateful for, such as your loved ones, your health, and even your personal growth. Know that you are here with purpose, so even though you many not be surrounded with the kind of love you deserve, you are grateful to be here to celebrate, even if it is on your own.

Happy Thanksgiving and have a wonderful time.

Photo credit: Family Photo/Adobe Stock and Woman eating City Signal