It’s hard to believe it, but we’re already getting ready for Thanksgiving. We’re all about celebrating holidays at Maot Chitim, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate a holiday than to practice gratitude. These are just a few of the things that we’re giving thanks for this Thanksgiving. 

1. The Chicagoland Jewish community

We like to think that our Jewish community here in Chicago is pretty special. We love when the whole community comes together to celebrate, especially for our Rosh Hashanah and Passover deliveries. Our community is the perfect balance of diverse and close-knit.

2. Delicious food

It’s easy to stress about the intricacies of Thanksgiving dinner, and easy to take for granted that we even get to have such an extravagant meal, or really any meal at all. We are reminded of this when we deliver packages to those who need it for the Jewish holidays, but it’s important to remember year-round.

3. Warmth

During this unseasonably cold fall season, let’s be thankful for warm clothes and heating in our homes. It’s easy to complain about the cold every time we walk outside, but it would be even more uncomfortable without winter coats. 

4. Shelter

There are many things to worry about on a daily basis, but we should be grateful if stressing about where to stay at night is not one of them. Even though houses are a huge responsibility and burden, they are also a privilege.

5. Family

Thanksgiving is, for many people, one of the only times when the whole family can be together. This can cause drama or tension, but at the end of the day it’s important to acknowledge the blessing of getting together as a family.

There are so many ways to practice gratitude this November. You can start a journal or share something you’re thankful for at your Thanksgiving dinner. A great way to turn your gratitude into something tangible is to help others who need help with basic necessities this winter by donating to organizations who are doing work to end hunger and homelessness. Happy Thanksgiving to all!