Thanksgiving, as an Italian - Maria Scarogni, Programs Coordinator

As an Italian, Thanksgiving has always been a most interesting festivity to observe and learn about. While its purpose can be deduced from the name, all remaining knowledge regarding this huge American celebration is left to whatever comes from mainstream media, or to the excited tales from overseas friends.

I still remember the thrill in my parents’ voice as they were recounting their Thanksgiving experience from one of their many trips Stateside. Their story featured never-ending courses, abundant drinks and a stream of cousins and spouses and kids and friends gathering around a table on that specific day at the end of November – a joyous setting, where pants with elastic waistbands would eventually be the true heroes of the day.

Having worked at CIMBA for what is now a fair number of years, I have slightly improved what I know about Thanksgiving. Even though our campus celebration only vaguely resembles the splendor and taste of a home-cooked feast, I began to appreciate more and more the power of taking a moment to think about and express gratitude.

Pausing one’s routine to reflect and recognize aspects of our life for which we are grateful for it’s far from granted. However few those may be, saying thank you is also an act of humility, where we put in someone or something else’s hands part of the credit for something good we have.

This deliberate search for gratitude-worthy elements of my life not only helps soothe some of the bitterness and hopelessness that on some days seem to rule this crazy world – it also makes me feel cared for. Gratitude allows me to recognize that there is something, someone (or multiple someones), that are by my side and an integral part of what is positive, fulfilling and promising in the reality I live in.

So every year, when the third Thursday of November approaches, in the midst of reminding our cafeteria to order the turkey(s) and organizing our own small but special celebration, I take a few minutes off my day and remind myself to share a few heartfelt thank yous, either by writing them down or sharing a message with a loved one. With that, I encourage you to do the same, making this Fall a little less cold.

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