Editorial: Thanksgiving really isn’t one word — It is two

In light of this week’s article about Helping Hands and their phenomenal humanitarian work in our Long Island communities, it is difficult not to be moved by an organization like this, as we approach Thanksgiving.

Every last Thursday of November, we look forward to passing around cranberry sauce, crunchy stuffing and gravy-soaked turkey with the ones we love. Most people catch up with family they haven’t seen since the previous holiday, laugh about those age-old anecdotes relatives have been retelling for decades and maybe lounge around the TV in a “food-coma,” watching AMC’s yearly “Godfather” marathon.

But, as we anticipate Thursday’s day of rest, it is important to remember that the first part of the word Thanksgiving is “thanks.” Yes, many peoples’ families may cook year after year, but we shouldn’t come to accept it blindly. It is not something we should take for granted. Cooking for the ones we love is one of the kindest, most unifying acts we can bestow, and it is not as simple as putting a turkey into the oven.

With every hour of preparation cooks put into their Thanksgiving meals, they are not just putting in an hour of labor — they are putting in an hour of love, appreciation and devotion, for everyone they are cooking for. Appreciate them. Say thank you.

And while we should be cognizant of our loved ones on Thanksgiving, we must also think of those less fortunate. If we take the time to show gratitude for our family, we are one step closer to being able to show gratitude to strangers in need. To following the second part of the word.

According to Long Island Care’s website, over 220 thousand Long Islanders are food insecure, which is defined as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.” That is a startling number, and proves that more help is needed in serving these individuals.

This Thanksgiving, enjoy the turkey, but consider stopping by a local food pantry with a donation, as well. It could be the difference between a day of sorrow and a day of joy for a family in need. And sometimes gratitude most rewards the giver.