“Old Ways” is the third of seven Thanksgiving articles received in fall of 2023 from Wayne High School students. Five of them were published in The Byway’s most recent November paper. All will be featured online.
Thanksgiving is a large tradition loved by many. To some extent, I would say it is a cherished holiday in my family.
Our Thanksgiving gatherings almost always include a delightful appetizer of celery and cheese wiz, followed by kabobs of a cube cut pickle, cheese, and olives. The main event is my father’s deep fat fried turkey, while my mom makes special side dishes such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, bread rolls, and sometimes green beans. We share this holiday with close family and friends that have nothing better to do. My family’s way of celebrating Thanksgiving is not very original, but it remains enjoyable.
One of my favorite traditions is when my grandfather visits, and on other occasions, we go to his house in Arizona for a more spontaneous celebration. I enjoy this tradition, the tradition of just “going with the flow,” so to speak — when we do what we want on Thanksgiving, whether that be to actually plan this all out or just go with it. I like “just going with it” more than I do when we actually have the day planned out. It’s much easier, and hardly any stress for anyone. It’s a nice feeling to just be with my family.
Reflecting about how my ancestors, or just my grandparents in general, celebrated, I imagine they threw grand parties. I wonder if they could see what we do now, if it would leave them feeling disappointed — maybe possibly grateful — that we aren’t going through useless trouble to throw some Thanksgiving party. I may be biased; although, planning something big like that is stressful and feels like useless trouble. Either way, Thanksgiving is about being together, and I think my family has found our own way of doing that.
One memorable Thanksgiving stands out when my dad was working over the thanksgiving break and wasn’t going to make it home in time. My mom decided that she was going to make us our favorite foods instead, which were mac and cheese and chicken wings, rather than any of the traditional foods. That Thanksgiving was a memorable one, even though we didn’t have a big party or a grand feast. It was just nice to be there in the present without any worries. The food was delicious. I wish most of my Thanksgiving occasions would be like that, except ideally I would want it to be with my dad and my grandfather.
Looking back on that Thanksgiving, I appreciate the lesson it teaches. It shows that while traditions may be valuable, the essence of holidays lies in being present with those we hold close. Whether it’s through elaborate feasts or simple gatherings, the thing that truly matters is the togetherness families share on that day. It may sound cheesy, but it’s true; and I hope that we continue to do these traditions in our future celebrations and still carry an appreciation for this spontaneity.
In the end, Thanksgiving remains a relaxing occasion for my family, an occasion filled with cherished memories, the stories around the table, the laughter and the occasional deviation reminds me of the beauty in spontaneity. Whether it be that we’re feasting on a giant meal with family and friends, or simply savoring a simple quiet meal with close family, what truly matters is the togetherness that defines this simple holiday.
– by Ayla Deakin (11th) Wayne High School
Feature image caption: Hestor is funny, kind and helpful. She likes to jump on haystacks. Her dream is to one day be like a mountain goat. She wants to climb Kings Peak. She has lots of friends because she is kind, gentle, and plays with everyone. Courtesy of Haven D. (4th) Escalante.
Read more Thanksgiving stories in “Thanksgiving Games,” by Paizlee Jackson.