Rediscovering Gratitude: Transforming Thanksgiving Traditions

As Thanksgiving approaches on November 25, 2025, many individuals find themselves grappling with the holiday’s emotional weight. While intended as a time for gratitude and reflection, the holiday often feels overshadowed by personal challenges, academic pressures, and societal tensions. The Editorial Board reflects on how to reclaim the essence of Thanksgiving amid these complexities.

Reevaluating Thanksgiving’s Significance

Thanksgiving is frequently perceived as a superficial holiday that promotes forced positivity. Yet, it provides an important opportunity to appreciate the small joys in life. For some, the holiday’s traditional elements—family gatherings, sports, and festive meals—might seem more like obligations than celebrations. Individuals with strained family relationships or a disinterest in typical Thanksgiving activities often feel disconnected during this time.

At institutions like Hopkins, this sentiment is evident as students return from fall break. Many express feelings of discontent, revealing statements such as, “I spent the holiday in lab,” or, “I just worked.” For those who do celebrate, such responses often reflect a departure from the holiday’s spirit of rest and gratitude.

The underlying question remains: what truly encapsulates Thanksgiving? Beyond the glitz of elaborate meals and social gatherings, the essence of the holiday lies in recognizing and appreciating the small, everyday victories. This shift in perspective can foster a sense of belonging for everyone, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

Finding Joy in Small Moments

The journey toward gratitude can be transformative, particularly during challenging times. Simple acts of acknowledgment, such as appreciating a supportive friend or enjoying a beautiful sunset, hold significant power. In an environment that often glorifies constant work, such as the grind culture prevalent at many educational institutions, it is crucial to remember that balance contributes to true success.

As Thanksgiving approaches, individuals have various options for how to spend the day. Each choice allows for reflection on personal journeys and the positive experiences that have shaped them. This period also serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care, especially with exam season on the horizon.

The mantra of “work hard, play hard” is frequently touted, yet many struggle to implement it. This week, the Editorial Board encourages readers to safeguard their wellbeing while remaining dedicated to their responsibilities. Taking a moment to express gratitude is vital, serving as a source of warmth and motivation during the colder, demanding weeks ahead.

As the holiday draws near, consider setting aside time to reflect. Whether one is traveling, enjoying family moments, or simply relaxing at home, mindfulness can illuminate the efforts made throughout the year. Finding at least one opportunity to express gratitude can have lasting effects, fueling resilience as the year comes to a close.