Thanksgiving is my absolute favorite time of year. It’s a season filled with gratitude, giving, and family—a time to pause and reflect on what truly matters most. For me, it’s also the fall in New York, a magical time when the crisp air and changing leaves signal the start of the holiday season.
Gratitude and Giving: The Heart of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has always been more than just a holiday centered around a meal—it’s about giving thanks and, just as importantly, giving back. Gratitude is such a powerful emotion. It forces us to stop and recognize the abundance in our lives, even when things aren’t perfect. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but Thanksgiving is a time to refocus, to appreciate the small and big blessings we often overlook.
Giving back, in many ways, is the natural extension of gratitude. Whether it’s donating to a charity that resonates with you, giving to your alma mater, or supporting a cause that touches your heart, the act of giving can make a lasting impact. And here’s the thing: generosity isn’t just for the wealthy. There’s a common misconception that only those with substantial resources can give in a meaningful way, but I believe that anyone, at any income level, can make a difference.
The Power of Planning Your Giving
As a Certified Financial Planner® professional, I’ve seen firsthand how people at all income levels can create a giving strategy that fits within their budget. This season of giving can go far beyond a one-time donation or holiday gift. Working with a financial advisor can help you craft a thoughtful plan for charitable giving or even for supporting your loved ones in ways that are financially sustainable.
Consider creating a charitable giving plan that allows you to donate either your time or money throughout the year, not just at Thanksgiving. This can include giving to a cause you’re passionate about or supporting a family member with a financial gift, whether it’s a contribution to a college fund, a helping hand with bills, or even assistance for a major life event like a wedding or home purchase. Financial planning ensures that you are helping others without compromising your own financial goals.
Family, Connection, and Tradition
In my family, we have traditions that we hold dear. Every year, we go around the table and each person shares something they’re thankful for. It’s a simple tradition, but one that reminds us all to focus on the positive and to appreciate the people in our lives. I also love spending time with family outdoors, enjoying the beauty of fall in New York. Walking through Central Park with the leaves turning shades of orange, yellow, and red, or heading out to a pumpkin patch in Long Island—these small moments bring so much joy.
The Fall Season in New York
There’s something magical about fall in New York. The weather shifts to a cool, comfortable temperature, and the city itself seems to slow down, if only for a moment. I think this shift mirrors the energy of Thanksgiving perfectly. It’s a reminder to slow down, to breathe, and to enjoy the present moment.
The beauty of the season serves as a backdrop for reflection and gratitude. Whether it’s apple picking upstate, enjoying a Thanksgiving Day parade, or just taking in the stunning foliage, fall is a time to celebrate change, tradition, and new beginnings.
In Conclusion: What Matters Most
Thanksgiving is a reminder that life is about more than just work or finances. It’s about family, gratitude, giving, and connection. It’s about understanding that what matters most isn’t material wealth, but the wealth we build in relationships, shared moments, and the support we give to others.
This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to not only give thanks but also to give back. Whether it’s to a loved one, a charity, or a cause close to your heart, remember that giving is about making an impact in ways big and small. And if you’re unsure how to fit giving into your financial picture, a CFP® professional can help you design a plan that makes sense for your life and your goals.
From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful and peaceful Thanksgiving season. May it be filled with love, gratitude, and the spirit of giving.