Thanksgiving is a cherished occasion that transcends its historical roots to become a universal celebration of gratitude. After losing a loved one on Thanksgiving several years ago, I knew that this day meant so much more than family gatherings and good eats. However, I am still the first in line for my mom’s holiday ham and uncle’s sweet potato pie. For me, 2023 has brought multiple blessings despite any hard times I experienced this year, and for that, I am grateful.
For instance, I am thankful for maintaining a stable income during the WAG/SAG-AFTRA Strike this year. Sadly, so many workers did not have a steady income or income at all. And despite not knowing where this year would take me, God made a way.
Thanksgiving offers a chance to acknowledge their unwavering support, laughter in times of joy, and comforting presence during challenges. In recognizing these relationships, we cultivate a sense of community and interconnectedness.
I would not have remained sane during these challenging times if it hadn’t been for my tribe and family. They have been the biggest and best cheerleaders someone could ask for. Therefore, the best way I could repay them was not to give up. Although Hollywood was closed, I could still work on my craft, writing. So, when the industry officially opens again, I can hit the ground running.
In essence, gratitude is powerful, shaping our perspectives and fostering a positive mindset. Thanksgiving is a gentle reminder to pause and express appreciation for the abundance surrounding us.
The 21Ninety staff writers and the Director of Affiliate Partnerships spoke to me this year about their “Thanksgiving gratitude.”
What 21Ninety Staff Members Are Grateful For
Here’s what the team is grateful for and how they’re making sure to thank those around them.
Words from the Director of Affiliate Partnerships
When we actively cultivate gratitude, we become attuned to the richness of our experiences, finding joy in both the grand and the seemingly mundane.
“This Thanksgiving, I’m truly grateful for a special milestone: building a Tiny Home for our vacation rental venture. My wife and I took on the challenge of tackling tasks like septic installation, water trenching, and electrical lines this summer. Currently, we’re immersed in the interior work, like framing bathroom walls, laying tile, flooring, and crafting the kitchen. It’s been an incredible learning journey, and we’re thankful for the lessons, advice, and support from friends, family, and professionals along the way,” reveals Justin Young, the Director of Affiliate Partnerships.
Young and his wife express their gratitude by connection.
“We express gratitude by welcoming loved ones into our home, sharing meals, and being a constant support. Our connections mean the world to us, and we’re dedicated to giving back as much as we can to nurture our relationships,” says Young.
Words from Editor
In addition to material abundance, Thanksgiving prompts reflection on intangible gifts—health, love, and opportunities. Gratitude for good health acknowledges the body’s resilience and the ability to experience life fully. Love, a driving force, binds individuals and communities, fostering a sense of belonging. Opportunities, both seized and missed, contribute to personal growth and learning.
“Considering the turmoil the world is in I’m grateful for the small moments that make up the greatness of my life. First and foremost, my daughter and partner who hold me down and remind me of my purpose. I’m grateful for health, safety, food, and a solid support system. This past year, we’ve seen many people lose jobs, homes, and struggle to keep up with the financial demands of the economy. I’m very grateful that my husband and I both have a job. I’m particularly grateful for my bold and creative team of writers who challenge me to think outside the box. Our team here is ambitious, in-tune with the audience, and most importantly, dedicated to creating and delivering thought-provoking, informative, and even unconventional content,” says Silvana Lazama, editor of 21Ninety.
“I’m big on “thank yous” and ” I love yous.” I will say it to a stranger if it’s how I feel. I’m at the point in my life where I can recognize how everyone you come across can make an impact in your life,” she continues. I also recognize that a lot of us didn’t grow up being celebrated, so I try to do it as often as I can now. I believe in the power of interconnection. How you feel about yourself, will at some point, impact another. So I try to reach out, at the very least. I try to check in, and say ‘I appreciate you,’ ‘I’m thinking of you,’ and ‘I love you.’On a grander scale, I’d probably take everyone shopping if I could.”
Words from Associate Editor
Moreover, expressing gratitude involves not only recognizing external factors but also acknowledging our strengths and accomplishments. Thanksgiving is an ideal time to appreciate the journey, recognizing the hurdles overcome and the resilience displayed. This self-reflective aspect adds depth to the celebration, fostering a sense of empowerment.
“I’m finding my way professionally after years of trial and error. I feel closer than ever to my professional dreams and the ideal life that nurtures and emphasizes who I am outside of work,” shares Associate Editor Aysia Morton. “Recently, some friends of mine confided in me about disliking their jobs, and moreover, disliking their life. Work and hustle culture is such an integral part of life in the US, and so many people don’t know themselves outside of it. My goal is to know myself fully, especially void of work.”
Morton shows her gratitude to those in her community through affection.
“I think I’ll express more verbal and physical affection. I’m not the most affectionate person, and expressing my gratitude in that way will resonate with my community and those who have supported/influenced me. The ongoing tragedies across the globe have encouraged me to think more about mortality. I’d like to get into the habit of hugging my people more often, and showing affection because it’s not promised.”
Words from Staff Writer
Staff Writer Angelica Wilson reflects on maintaining a positive attitude while pursuing her dreams.
“I’m thankful for my ability to take on challenges with an attitude of ‘give it a try. You never know how things will work out unless you do it.’ That view has allowed me to pursue my passions as careers continuously and do it successfully,” Wilson explains.
One way she expresses her gratitude to the ones who have supported her is through service or gifts.
“I express gratitude through acts of service and gift giving. So, that’s what I plan to do. I love to give the people I care about gifts that they’ve been asking for or could use,” she says.
Wilson notes that she typically gives gifts throughout the year, not just during the holidays.
As we gather to give thanks, let us wholeheartedly embrace the spirit of gratitude. We enrich our lives and contribute to a collective atmosphere of positivity and appreciation. Thanksgiving gratitude, a simple practice, can transform not just a day but how we approach life, fostering a continuous attitude of thankfulness.