Chain of Gratitude

Research indicates that family traditions are a valuable way to strengthen families. 

From food memories to apple turkeys, I can easily recall my favorite Thanksgiving memories of childhood.

Yet, every year when Mom handed us the apples, toothpicks and candy to create the ultimate turkey, I’m quite sure she didn’t research the latest benefit of Thanksgiving crafts in relationship to the family unit.  She just wanted us out from being underfoot in the kitchen. Regardless of the reason, apple turkeys still hold lasting memories in my heart.

Family traditions do give us something to look forward to. They help us slow down and connect, help children feel secure, create positive feelings and promote a sense of belonging.  They glue us together.  Why not add a new family tradition, or renew an old one, as part of your Thanksgiving celebration this year?   

Times change, but family memories remain. My mother is not here anymore to hand out the apple turkey supplies, but it just isn’t Thanksgiving without them. 

Our newest tradition, thanks to my brother and his family, is called the chain of gratitude.  Upon arrival, every person anonymously writes what they are thankful for on a strip or two of brown, red or yellow colored paper. The children slowly create a paper chain linking our bounty of gratitude. The chain hangs throughout dinner. During dessert, the chain is taken down and our thanks are read aloud, link by link. Readers rotate and everyone listens. The room is filled with love, support, laughter and sometimes tears.

So, if you’re looking for a new tradition, or even just a way to keep the kids out of the kitchen, try the chain of gratitude this Thanksgiving. The benefits are endless. Research not required.