By Patrick Robinson

We always had a big Thanksgiving.

Our family of five boys sort of meant we always had a big turkey and lots of side dishes, thanks to my mom who worked so hard.. but as I recall, my Dad was in charge of the bird itself. Always Sage Stuffing.. inside the turkey. Always the green beans. Always mashed potatoes, always a ton of gravy.

That was our way for many years, even after we grew up and my brothers had families of their own, we’d come to our Dad’s house for Thanksgiving. That reunion of family love was incredibly important.

It reminded us all of what matters, of who matters, of who knew us better than anyone else and still loved us. 

Later when it was too hard for my parents to handle the big group I was lucky enough to join my wife’s extended family, 30 people all gathered together to share updates about our lives, enjoy a fantastic meal that everyone contributed to. In fact that was sort of the point. 

But this year, we are cast adrift. No family gathering. My wife’s sister said it’s too much work.. and I understand.. I get it. it’s a huge task both before and after. It hurts.. but it makes sense.

This has given me a new perspective. 

As they say when you lose something you miss it. 

So I am grateful. To my father and mother who worked so hard to take care of me. To my brothers and sisters with whom I could share my life and so many memories. To my wife’s family who embraced me and let me share those meals and glimpses of their path. 

It’s just another phase I know. I am wistful. But in the end very thankful. 

Isn’t that what its all about?