One tradition that was started for me in my undergrad out in Southern California was to recall something that I’m thankful for.

Sure, eat turkey. Sure, meet with people. We did that in a big group, trying not to get stuffing or soda on the marley, but (and I forget which year it was, but it was our first gathering where we started it) we all stood up in a group and said out loud something that we were thankful for.

I try, every year, to recall how it felt to be in that group of people that had no real relation except for being classmates and to just be grateful for something.

This year, I’m grateful for the people who haven’t disappeared.