The first Thanksgiving took place in the autumn of 1621 in Plymouth, Massachusetts Bay Colony. Recently arrived Pilgrims and local Wampanoag people celebrated their alliance and a successful autumn harvest. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln designated Thanksgiving as a national holiday to unite the country during the Civil War. The holiday now celebrates gratitude for good fortune and the people around us. However, what does Thanksgiving mean to HSMSE’s teachers?

The teachers that The Echo interviewed each celebrate Thanksgiving in unique ways and have their own thoughts on the holiday. The Echo asked, “Do you have any favorite Thanksgiving traditions?” Mr. Choi said that he doesn’t particularly enjoy Thanksgiving since the food doesn’t match his taste. For example, turkey is a very dry meat, and he doesn’t like raisins either, but he does enjoy cooking for the holiday dinner. Ms. Walker, on the other hand, enjoys the cranberry sauce and stuffing. When asked for their favorite Thanksgiving pastimes, most answered parlor games or board games. Ms. Walker also enjoys giving thanks for people and things that she appreciates. Mr. Choi said that after the food he likes to take a break and let the food digest. He also said he enjoys taking a walk if it’s not too cold out. Most importantly, one common sentiment the teachers share is that they spend time with their friends and family during Thanksgiving. Ms. Walker often invites HSMSE staff to her gatherings, which include a dinner, parlor games, and giving thanks. However, Ms. Hesseltine protested, “She’s never invited me, and it’s a real sore spot in our friendship. It makes me less thankful!”

Whether through eating, watching shows, going to the NYC Thanksgiving Parade, playing board games, or just talking, Thanksgiving brings family and friends together. It reminds us that we are not alone—even during difficult times—and we should not take our families, friends, or teachers for granted.