football

cranberry sauce

that sketch uncle you've met twice before

leaves falling

sweet potatoes

excessively large turkey balloons

but it's so much more than that

all the sacrifices

all the miracles

all the hard work

from our ancestors

made this possible.

so, instead of just stuffing a turkey leg in your mouth

or chucking a football at your little brother's face

think about all the people who put you at that table.

your parents, your grandparents, and so many more people created this future for you

and even if it's just one day a year,

be greatful.