Ever since I moved to the United States, Thanksgiving has become a tradition for me. Growing up in the Middle East, I had heard of this holiday, but it was not something we celebrated, at least not in the same way as it is observed in North America. This year, aside from enjoying the two-day holiday break, I have taken the opportunity to learn more about its history and to reflect on the things I am thankful for.
Thanksgiving is celebrated every 4th Thursday of November and is deeply rooted in gratitude, harvest celebrations, and early American history. The holiday dates back to ceremonies of thanks that were often tied to the seasons and the harvest, traditions observed by both European settlers and Native American tribes. However, it was in 1621 that the event we now recognize as the “First Thanksgiving” occurred. That year, the Pilgrims, English settlers who had arrived in what is now Massachusetts, learned survival techniques from the Wampanoag tribe, including how to grow crops and fish for food. To celebrate their first successful harvest, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag shared a three-day feast in the autumn of 1621.
In the mid-19th century, a writer for Godey’s Lady’s Book, Sarah Josepha Hale, campaigned for Thanksgiving to become a national holiday. She wrote to political leaders, including President Abraham Lincoln, who eventually declared it a national holiday in 1863. Later, the date was fixed as the 4th Thursday in November, partly to extend the holiday shopping season during the Great Depression.
Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated with family gatherings and feasts that often feature turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. It is a time for reunions and celebrating connections with loved ones.
Thanksgiving feast
Living in the United States, I have come to appreciate this holiday, especially because it brings me together with my friends—my home away from home. Every year, I feel fortunate to celebrate with a big “Friendsgiving” dinner at my brother’s apartment in Brooklyn, New York.
This year, however, feels different. The past few months have been particularly challenging with the ongoing war in the region where my family resides. Like many Lebanese, I have been on edge: stressed, anxious, and heartbroken to see our country and people suffer. Recently, it has felt as though the world has given up on us. Every day brings more horrific news, stories of tragedy, and unimaginable events that no human being should have to endure. For many, this Thanksgiving feels like there is little to be grateful for, and the weight of despair is hard to shake.
But as I sat and reflected, I realized that even in the darkest times, there is still light, hope, and gratitude to be found. So here is my small list of what I am thankful for this Thanksgiving:
My list of gratitude
The extended Lebanese diaspora: Nothing warms my heart more than being surrounded by my people. Miles away from home, being around other Lebanese always makes me feel connected. Some people I meet for just a few hours, and yet they feel like family. When the war began, the strength of this diaspora became even more apparent. From fundraiser events and protests to small gatherings and messages of support, these incredible people have lifted me up and helped me carry on. I am deeply grateful for the sense of family and solidarity they bring.
The cities that have opened their doors to us: For me, it is New York. For others, it might be Los Angeles, Miami, Jersey, London, Paris, Dubai, Riyadh, or countless other places. While leaving Lebanon is always heartbreaking, and I constantly question the decision to be so far away, I cannot help but feel thankful for the opportunities these cities provide. New York, in particular, has been a sanctuary—a place where I have made amazing friends, discovered arts and culture, and grown in ways I never expected. Thank you, New York, for giving me a home and helping me find myself.
The Internet for keeping us connected: More than ever, I feel grateful for the internet. This powerful tool has kept us together even when we are miles apart. From facetiming my family to make sure they are okay, watching live news, or sending donations, the internet has been a lifeline. Although it is overwhelming to witness such atrocities in real time, it is comforting to stay connected to those I care about.
The Healing Power of Arts and Culture: Whether it is watching a show, visiting an art gallery, or engaging in ballet classes, I have found solace in the rich cultural experiences that New York offers. Immersing myself in these passions has refreshed me in countless ways. Beyond exploring new hobbies, I have also had the opportunity to connect with a community, make friends, and build a life outside of my Lebanese roots. This “parallel life” has provided me with an escape, a space to destress, grow, and find joy amidst the chaos. Moreover, art & culture have sparked new ideas and creativity for me and my brothers. Together, we found hope, motivation, and inspiration in these ideas, which often acted as a light guiding us through challenging times
The Joys of Everyday Life: Taking a step back, I realized that even in the darkest times, there are small joys to be found. Whether it is seeing some of my favorite colleagues at work, savoring my morning coffee, taking a walk through the city, or sharing laughter with friends, there is always something to be happy and grateful for. These moments remind me to stay present and to appreciate the beauty in life’s simple pleasures.
As I sit here reflecting on all that I am grateful for, I am reminded that gratitude is not about ignoring hardship but about finding light even in the darkest times. This Thanksgiving, I choose to hold on to hope, to cherish the connections I have built, and to celebrate the resilience of my community. Gratitude does not erase challenges, but it gives us the strength to carry on. And for that, I am thankful.
Home away from home
