In 1943, Norman Rockwell painted Freedom from Want during a time when the world was marked by scarcity and uncertainty. His iconic image of a family gathered around a Thanksgiving table embodied more than the food or the holiday—it captured the gratitude, connection, and resilience of people who cherished each other despite the hardships of war. The moment was about the power of unity and shared presence, a reminder of what truly mattered.
Now, as 2024 draws to a close, our society stands at a crossroads. The challenges we face today—though vastly different—are no less significant. We live in a world overflowing with abundance, convenience, and technology. Yet, with so much at our fingertips, the essence of togetherness, once central to moments like Thanksgiving, risks being overshadowed by distraction.
Reflecting on Gratitude in 2024
This year has shown us both the best and the most challenging parts of modern life. Technology has brought us closer in some ways, making it possible to stay in touch across great distances. But in other ways, it has pulled us apart, replacing meaningful face-to-face connections with digital interactions. We often find ourselves physically together but emotionally distant, each person absorbed in their own screen, while the moments that matter most slip by unnoticed.
Gratitude in 2024 looks different than it did 80 years ago. Today, we express thanks through quick texts, Instagram posts, or carefully crafted captions. While these gestures can be meaningful, they often lack the depth of truly shared experiences. The act of gathering around a table, looking into each other’s eyes, and sharing stories without interruption is becoming a rarity.
Looking Ahead to 2025: A Challenge for Connection
As we turn the page to 2025, it’s worth reflecting on what we want to carry forward. The new year brings the promise of fresh starts and new opportunities to redefine what gratitude and connection mean in our lives. It’s a chance to return to the essence of Thanksgiving—not just the food or the holiday itself, but the shared moments of presence and appreciation.
Gratitude, at its core, isn’t about abundance. It’s about intentionality. It’s about pausing, stepping away from distractions, and choosing to be fully present with the people who matter most. As we move into 2025, let’s challenge ourselves to create more of these moments—not just on special occasions, but every day.
Whether it’s turning off our phones during dinner, scheduling time for heartfelt conversations, or simply expressing appreciation out loud to those we love, these small steps can bring us back to the deeper connections we all crave. In 2025, let’s make gratitude not just something we say, but something we live.
A Thanksgiving Wish
As we gather with friends and family this Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we are truly thankful for—not just the blessings we can count, but the people who make our lives richer. Let’s embrace the opportunity to connect, to share, and to listen without distraction. This is the heart of gratitude: being fully present with those we love.
On behalf of me, Sam, Chloe, and Sophie, we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with warmth, joy, and the kind of connection that stays with you long after the meal is over. Here’s to a holiday season that reminds us of what truly matters and a new year filled with gratitude, growth, and meaningful moments.
Happy Thanksgiving! 
