The Forgotten Holiday

Quinn Collins

     Once the Jack-O’-Lanterns have been thrown out and the Halloween candy has been polished off, too many people have no problem jumping straight into the Christmas season without a second thought. Unfortunately, this leaves America’s most honest and heartfelt holiday in an awkward position. Too many people treat Thanksgiving like an annoying speed bump on their way to winter merriment. I am taking a stand by saying Thanksgiving is far too important to be treated like a second-class holiday!
     So many holidays have become overly commercialized. It seems like Arbor Day is the only holiday that doesn’t involve buying a very specific set of items every year to celebrate. While the turkey industry certainly booms at the end of November, there are very few extra gifts, decorations, or knick-knacks that go along with the holiday. The pressure of buying gifts people will like without breaking the bank is completely eliminated. Shopping for Thanksgiving is just simpler than any other holiday.
     Thanksgiving is also far more genuine than any other holiday. Christmas claims to be all about the gift of giving and the happy holiday spirit, but deep down inside we all know it’s about getting presents. Thanksgiving has fewer expectations and rituals, which leaves much more time for families to spend real time together. My fondest Thanksgiving memories aren’t tied to material possessions, but to my family and the people around me. That’s what holidays should be about!
     I love candy and presents as much as the next guy, but Thanksgiving holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just an excuse to over-eat and watch football; it’s an excuse to do those things with the people we love most. So… before you start decking the halls, make sure you have a little turkey first.