We use Thanksgiving as a day to express our gratitude for all the great things we have in life. Although I think that is a beneficial thing, I believe that we could do so much more. Thanksgiving, as well as the rest of the holiday season, can be used as an opportunity to give something back to those who have helped us, or to offer help to those in need. Even doing something small can make a difference in someone's life. This year, let's change the way we celebrate the holidays.

Food!

Food is a big part of holiday celebrations. Many families put in a lot of effort planning and cooking food for their relatives, but more food is usually cooked than what could possibly be consumed. Even with food being used as leftover meals, there is usually food wasted. This year, let's be less wasteful!

Many people struggle to even feed their family, and even though we can't solve world hunger, there is something we can do. If you know of a person or family in need, this is a great opportunity to reach out to them. You can deliver a special meal to them, even if it's just an extra pie, or invite them to a home-cooked meal. If you do not have anyone or any family specific in mind that needs assistance, there are still ways you can help. The food bank can always use our assistance, whether it be our time, food donations, or monetary donations. You might not realize this, but every act of kindness helps. It doesn't matter if you do something big or small, the important thing is that you did something for someone else. “Always have a willing hand to help someone, you might be the only one that does.”

Family!

Holidays are a time to get together with family and friends, but unfortunately, sometimes the holidays are spent bickering over different things, some of them being of importance, but others being as simple as which team will win the football game. This year, let's put all our differences aside and enjoy the time we have together with our families!

With everyone's busy schedule, holidays are the few chances we have to get together with our families, especially when relatives live in different states. We shouldn't waste the precious time we have together. If you don't already, I think you should try to help out with the cooking and cleaning. It's a way to help pay back your family for all the things they've done for you.

Reflection!

"Even though we all can still do more, there's so much to be thankful for," and that's why I think it's very important to take the time to acknowledge the things we have been blessed with in life. This year, let's be thankful!

The holidays can be a stressful season, but it's a good idea to set aside some time for yourself because you'll most likely need and want it. The holidays are a chance to reflect on both past and present situations. This will allow us to make decisions on what we need or want to change to make a better future for ourselves, our families, and people in need.