Thanksgiving: A Table Big Enough for All of Us

Thanksgiving in our home as empty nesters is filled with anticipation of welcoming our

children Stu and Remi, and getting that long-awaited hug that fills my heart in ways

words never can. For the past 28 years, we have looked forward to every Thanksgiving

not only within our family, but also in the way our Lake Oconee community celebrates

the season so beautifully. The annual Lighting at The Ritz transforms an ordinary

evening into pure magic as children’s eyes sparkle when the Christmas tree comes

alive. We reunite with friends, meet their extended families and see kids we have known

for years, many are now grown, reminding us just how quickly time moves. Parents and

grandparents point out the gingerbread house to their little ones while the excitement

builds for Breakfast with Santa.

The holiday spirit continues with the OPAS Falala Holiday Concert where music fills the

air with joy, and the ice-skating rink at The Ritz draws both the young and the young-at-

heart. These traditions, stitched together year after year, weave a tapestry of connection

reminding us how lucky we are to live in this community. While the world outside may

seem divided, here at the lake, we gather with different families, stories and lives,

finding joy in the same lights, songs, and traditions. And this is the true meaning of

Thanksgiving. The gratitude that is meant to be shared and the laughter that fills the

table where we count our blessings, not disagreements.

This year, as we carve the turkey and pass the stuffing, let us remember that

Thanksgiving is about the miracle that happens when we gather together no matter how

different we may be. What matters most are family, community and one simple

truth….that there is always room at the table.

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.”