Thanksgiving with Friends: Embracing Gratitude and Togetherness in Valencia

Thanksgiving has always held a special place in my heart, not because of its historical connotations or the delicious feast that accompanies it, but because it embodies the essence of togetherness. Whether you celebrate Thanksgiving with friends, family or with whoever is around, is a time to pause and reflect on what we have, appreciate the journey, and express gratitude for our blessings, big and small. This year, my Thanksgiving will have a unique flavor. It’s seasoned with the zest of new beginnings and sprinkled with the warmth of newfound friendships, as I celebrate in Valencia, Spain, far from my family but close to the spirit of the holiday.

For many, including myself as I navigate new life in Valencia, this holiday underscores a universal need for connection and appreciation. This year especially, I’m reminded of how Thanksgiving can transcend its American roots, becoming a global celebration of gratitude.

Anticipating a New Thanksgiving Tradition

Relocating to Valencia has been a blend of excitement and challenge. In the U.S., Thanksgiving is deeply embedded in family traditions and shared histories. With people living at distances from their own families more people are hosting Friendsgiving celebrations, Thanksgiving with friends. Here, in Spain where the holiday isn’t typically celebrated, it offers a chance to introduce this beautiful tradition to new friends in a city vibrant with its own rich heritage.

Recently, at a language exchange, I had a conversation with a local woman who was fascinated by the concept of Thanksgiving. She expressed a sincere wish that such a holiday, focused solely on gratitude and community, was celebrated in Spain. We agreed that a celebration not tied to a specific religion or culture, where no one is at the center, is an amazing concept. It’s simply a celebration of who and what we get to experience in our lives. This interaction highlighted the universal appeal of Thanksgiving—it’s a concept that transcends borders, resonating with anyone who values gratitude and togetherness.

This year, an acquaintance has extended a warm invitation for us to celebrate Thanksgiving with her and her husband. We are both new to the area and I am excited to share the day and weave our individual traditions into one. This is not just a meal but a celebration of new beginnings and shared stories. I typically hosted Thanksgiving dinner when we were in the US and I will definitely miss my family this year, but I am eager for a Thanksgiving with friends and the new memories that it will bring.

Expats and Thanksgiving

Living away from family, missing the Thanksgiving holiday can be difficult for US expats. However, central to Thanksgiving is the spirit of gratitude and something that you can implement anywhere, anytime. Gratitude is a sentiment that significantly impacts our psychological well-being. 

Research underscores the profound effects of gratitude on our overall health. A study by Robert A. Emmons and Michael E. McCullough found that people who regularly engage in gratitude practices report fewer physical symptoms, feel better about their lives as a whole, and are more optimistic about the future. Implementing daily gratitude practices can deepen your appreciation and enhance your mental health, especially in times of significant change like relocating to a new country.

Suggested Daily Practices of Gratitude

1. Morning Reflections: Begin each day by acknowledging three things you’re grateful for. This practice, as simple as it seems, sets a positive tone for the day and shifts focus from challenges to blessings.
2. Gratitude Journaling: Maintain a gratitude journal. The act of writing down grateful thoughts has been shown to increase happiness and life satisfaction by making us more aware of the good things in life, as per findings in a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.
3. Sharing Meals: Use meal times to share what you’re thankful for. This can turn everyday dining into a celebration of daily blessings, strengthening relationships with those around you.
4. Volunteer: Community service is a powerful way to give back and cultivate gratitude. Helping others can shift your perspective on your own life, highlighting what you have rather than what you lack. Here in Valencia, there are more opportunities since the recent flooding to lend a helping hand and I know every community out there can use assistance.
5. Compliment Freely: Giving genuine compliments can make both the giver and the receiver feel better. Recognizing others’ strengths and kindnesses not only boosts their mood but also reinforces your own sense of gratitude.

Thanksgiving reminds us that gratitude shouldn’t be limited to a single day. Adopting a mindset of gratitude year-round can transform ordinary days into opportunities for joy and connection. Here in Valencia, as I prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends, I’m embracing this mindset actively.

The Benefits of Gratitude

Gratitude does more than make us feel good—it can improve our physical health. A publication by the American Psychological Association notes that gratitude is associated with better sleep, healthier eating habits, and reduced risk of heart disease. Every thankful moment, whether shared at a Thanksgiving table or during a quiet morning reflection, contributes to a healthier, happier life.

Looking Forward

This year’s Thanksgiving celebration will be a blending of past memories and current experiences, each enriching the other. We’ll share stories, enjoy a blend of cuisines, and above all, celebrate the gift of each other’s company.

In Valencia, Thanksgiving will become more than just a day. It will be a heartfelt reminder of the new ties I am forming and a celebration of the present moment. It’s about turning every day into an opportunity to feel as connected and joyful as we do on Thanksgiving.

Conclusion

Embracing the spirit of gratitude daily enriches our lives, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. It’s about bringing the warmth and unity of Thanksgiving Day into every day, making each moment a little more meaningful. As I integrate into my new community, I look forward to not only sharing the traditions of Thanksgiving with friends new and acquaintances but also creating new ones that we can cherish together, regardless of where we come from. This blend of cultures and traditions in Valencia is not just a new way to celebrate but a new way to live, surrounded by gratitude and togetherness.

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