Thanksgiving became an official American holiday in 1863, and is now celebrated annually throughout the U.S. on the last Thursday of November. With Thanksgiving just behind us, students and faculty reflect on their Thanksgiving break. For many, Thanksgiving represents gathering with family and friends, sharing a meal, and spending the day playing games and bonding. Larger celebrations include the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

One of the most valuable aspects of Thanksgiving lies in the holiday’s name: giving thanks. Thanksgiving reminds everyone to express and display gratitude for their positive physical and emotional possessions. Thanksgiving highlights the importance of appreciating the meaningful things in our lives.

Some members of the Pine Crest community took a moment this week to reflect and share some things for which they are grateful. Ilana Gellman ’23 shared her gratitude for Dr. Lolis’ Women’s Writers Post-AP English class. She said, “I love having an opportunity to discuss issues in our world pertaining to feminism, particularly by reading and discussing feminist literature.” Also, Ilana loves Thanksgiving because she can “practice gratitude and is reminded of what is important to [her].”

Antonia Adames ‘26 shared her gratitude for her friends and said they “make me happy and always have my back no matter what.”

Joie Rodin ‘23 said she “likes to celebrate Thanksgiving because my family is always brought together.” One of Joie’s favorite parts of Thanksgiving is that she and her family all go to Georgia every year and share a big dinner with a lot of extended family.

William Knight ‘26 says he is “grateful for soccer and my family because they both play significant roles in my life.”

Thanksgiving reminds us of the many blessings in our lives, from our favorite class or sport to our friends and family. This year, as we enjoy our turkey, pumpkin pie, and cornbread, we should reflect on and be thankful for all the good things in our lives.