Gravy, Gripes, and Gobble: The Return of Thanksgiving

It’s that time of year again—Thanksgiving. Whether you’re bracing for a massive family gathering, a quiet dinner with a friend, or just praying for the holidays to be over already, it’s hard to escape the weight of this time of year.

Here’s the thing—Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be the Hallmark movie version of family gatherings. It doesn’t need to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to come with that extra layer of pressure to feel grateful for everything—especially if you’re trying to juggle the chaos around you. (Yes, that includes the weird dish your cousin made.)

Setting boundaries doesn’t make you a bad person. In fact, it’s a sign of emotional strength. If you know a conversation is going to spiral into chaos, give yourself permission to step back. Organise a fake call from “your boss.” Step out to vape, even though you quiet last month. Protect your peace. And don’t feel guilty about it!

The beauty of Thanksgiving lies in the moments you choose to create, not in the ones you feel forced into. Fill your plate with mashed potatoes, grab an extra serving of pumpkin pie, and try to embrace the lil’ joys that make you smile.