Capitalism. America’s favorite religion. 

Capitalism is the gas in the American Dream rat race. The driver behind how much money you make, how much stuff you own, where you live and the answer to the coveted question: 

What do you do?

It seems like such an innocent question. One regularly popped at parties, inquired at networking events and asked on dates.

Yet, the answer can unintentionally define a person without consideration of character, and be mistook as a measurement of worth. 

Covid19 changed everything including our most cherished holiday. A time when Americans gather around for that time honored tradition where they are incredibly thankful for—the best sales of the year—Black Friday!

Black Friday starts promptly at midnight, after Thanksgiving. Named after bookkeeping practices that note losses in red and profits in black, this holiday has capitalist origins at its root. 

Though, one could argue the demeanor of this time-honored tradition is quite dark. Even Covid19 can’t prevent one third of American shoppers from being in the physical store this year. 

This time of year, gets easily consumed by the utter chaos and the go-go-go, that it’s easy to forget what Thanksgiving is even about in the first place. 

I was at a small Thanksgiving gathering when I overheard a friend’s child ask for a cookie. After she gave permission, he responded with an absolute “YES!”

I’m talking, a knee raise, arm pumping kind of YES. An exclamation of joy for the simplest pleasure. 

I paused. 

When was the last time I felt exhilarating joy over something so simple? So much so, that I raised a knee and pumped my arm like I was begging a trucker to yank his horn (the G-rated version).

It was a solid ten minutes before I recalled a moment a month prior. My jaw dropped wide open after movie theaters reopened with limited capacity. 

Unlike other movies in 2020, Christopher Nolan refused to release his new movie, Tenet, on a streaming service like Netflix, Disney+ or HBO Max. So, when I learned the theater in my city was premiering Tenet, I. FREAKED. OUT.  

When I saw the trailer in 2019, I had no idea what the movie was about. And, if I’m being honest, I still haven’t a clue what that movie is about. 

Both my friend Kennethia and I were thoroughly confused. For the record, we were not alone. Seriously. Thank goodness for New Rockstars’ explainer video. 

The plot of the movie aside, I absolutely enjoyed the experience as did everyone else, primarily due to one feeling that was clearly in the air:

Just sitting in a big comfy recliner seat, in front of a massive screen with Dolby surround sound, was a thrill. Even though NO ONE had any idea what the movie was about, the experience was pure, fist-bumping, joy. 

Like so many other Americans, my Thanksgiving is substantially different in 2020. Previously, I joined relatives at my uncle’s house…

The relaxing jazz music welcomed everyone inside as a roaring fire crackles in the fireplace. A pine tree with white lights stands tall in the great room.

Garland runs along the balcony and stairway railings, reminding everyone that Christmas is only a hop, skip and jump away.

My aunt’s impeccable décor glowing on the dining room table. Two sets of fresh long candle sticks are on either side of the bead and ornament centerpiece. Colorful cloth napkins are secured in attractive holders.  

Full plate sets sit atop gold chargers that are ALWAYS removed promptly before food is served. Fine crystal glasses—some with gold rims and others without (due to a dishwasher mishap.) 

The infamous pewter rabbit boat that vomits gravy. The large turkey platter that was lost for a few years and recently resurfaced last year. 

Brussel sprouts tossed with oil, salt and pepper. Baby carrots glazed with lavender oil. Mashed potatoes that were boiled, to aid with peeling, before they are mashed together.

The famous berry salad—mixed greens, blueberries, strawberries, nuts and raspberry dressing. 

And, the main event—the turkey. Typically, two are served including one traditional in the oven and a second prepared in a smoker.

Lastly, the special knife set that only makes an appearance on Thanksgiving; because my uncle is a surgeon who requires a “scalpel” to do the carving. All topped with espresso, homemade whipped cream and pie—pecan and pumpkin.

My responsibilities are substantially different this year too. Formerly, I was the “tall one” who always reaches for all things high. The onion chopper, which necessitates my onion googles. And, the designated champagne opener, pourer and server. 

Thanksgiving is such a beautiful occasion. A wonderful dinner that brings family and friends together, even if the headcount is reduced.

While my tradition may have gone in another direction this year, I still feel incredibly grateful for what I do have. 

My memories. My health. My friends. My loved ones. For all that, and so much more, I am very thankful for this year, indeed. 

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