The celebration of Thanksgiving has always been more about family than the food we eat.

Although we indulge in foods that we have prepared specially for the occasion, the real meaning of the holiday is enjoying family and friends as we come together. Thanksgiving is a holiday on which families travel from afar to get home. Our common bond for that day is the food that brings us together, especially the turkey and dressing and a little something wild on the side that was hunted especially for the menu.

Thanksgiving has always been important to me. It is special, because we all get together and enjoy each other. This Thanksgiving was somewhat empty around my home because I was not able to share it with my immediate family. Since they are spread here and there and the economy is weighing heavy on our pockets, we will be celebrating without one another. But that does not place a damper on the occasion since our next best thing is to keep in touch by the telephone.

I can remember growing up with Dad, Mom and my siblings. We were and still are a close-knit family even though some have passed on.

No matter what mishaps, misunderstanding or confusion satan brings between us, we shake it off and continue to enjoy one another. God put us together for a reason.

We all had something to bring to the table of family throughout our lives. Each one of us was special in our parent’s lives and our parents were special in our lives. Although Daddy had seven children and a wife to feed, he stayed in there until death. Although Momma had to learn ways to cut corners with what was brought to the table, she hung in there with Daddy and they raised us to be respectful and grateful for what we had. Whenever we came to the table, my mom would remind us that the children in Ethiopia did not have food to eat. I took what she said seriously and even ate some of my sibling’s food to keep it from being thrown away. And because of this, I was given the nickname Mikey (he eats everything) from my family and friends.

I took it seriously to not throw away a bite and to this day, I do not waste food on my plate. I still can see those children in Ethiopia wishing for the food we throw away, as a country.

I am also reminded that there are people who do not have food to eat, even here in the United States.

As we celebrate this holiday, let’s keep in mind that family is forever. Although some families may be scattered because of each having their own separate lives, we must continue to cherish what each mean to the other. We should be thankful for family no matter what separates us, whether its distance or a misunderstanding.

Oftentimes because of misunderstanding and confusion, we sometimes separate ourselves from our family, but we shouldn’t because family is forever. If you have disconnected yourself from family, come home. Make amends because we are going to need each other in the tough times ahead.

In this economically depressed time, we should be thankful for what we have. There are a lot of people who are not as fortunate, and we think we have it bad.

Let’s continue to be there for one another. As family, we should always pull together and make it work. If one needs help, we should do our best to accommodate them.

Don’t ever take family for granted no matter what time or season it is, or for any reason. Yes, blood should be thicker than water. Blood binds the relationship and water dilutes it. Be thankful that you do or did have family, even if they have gone on and crossed over.

Cherish the memories of past Thanksgiving even if you cannot be together on this year’s celebration. Be thankful that family is forever.