Nothing is better than nearing the end of the year and gathering with family. Thanksgiving especially is about unity and getting together and is a prequel to my favorite holiday, Christmas. If you’re anything like me, you might appreciate the glory of the holiday more than others. As we get closer to the new year, I suddenly feel a sense of appreciation for the people who got through this year with me. The conclusion of the year celebrated through holidays makes everyone reflect on memories made and lessons learned. 

Not only is the valued reunion of families important but so is the significance behind Thanksgiving. While taught in early education for most people, it is important not to forget the history surrounding Thanksgiving. As a vague reminder, Thanksgiving is an annual feast that celebrates the arrival of the first Pilgrims. 

However, Thanksgiving is more commonly remembered as a big dinner shared between family and friends. In my family, my mother prepares all the traditional foods. If you have never celebrated Thanksgiving, foods like turkey, ham, mac & cheese, and even desserts like pumpkin pie are devoured throughout the day. 

In times like these, for people who are not local to Garden City, I know that traveling home for a week seems unreasonable so if you find yourself on campus next Thursday there is good news. From 1 pm-3 pm, all on-campus dorm students are invited to the Omar. D. Angeles Endowment Room to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Not only will generous meals be provided, but the game room will also be open to expand the celebration of the holiday.  

We cannot forget the day following Thanksgiving that begins the start of Christmas gift giving. 

Black Friday is one of my favorite days throughout the year. Shopping for myself and others is most definitely my favorite pastime, and nothing makes it better than all the special discounts on selected items in various stores. Everyone deserves a little gift for themselves as a reward for completing the year so do not miss out on all the fun shopping around Garden City’s many stores. 

Despite the stress that can come from the holidays and the end of the year, it is important to remember the meaning behind these holidays. To be together with the people we love and celebrate with them by appreciating and thanking them for what they have done for us.