For the past 13 years, I hosted thanksgiving at my then home. It was a lot of fun; the cooking, prepping, anticipation and then my beloved friends. -a little stressful too-This year was different. As I started my journey as an unmarried person, I could no longer host. I had many awesome invitations and felt really happy and honoured, but I chose to spend the evening with Drew, the pup, instead of joining my friends.Thanksgiving this year started out with a very heartwarming experience. My friends invited me along to volunteer at Meals-on-wheels. in San Francisco, to deliver extremely professional and coordinated meals throughout San Francisco for those who are “us” in the future: the elderly, but who have few means and most often live alone and cannot cook for themselves. Although this organization works year round, the efforts to bring them a bit of joy and a turkey meal on this so special Thanksgiving day in America, are quadrupled.
I was in awe seeing how many families and kids volunteered. Then, there was taking the meals to these people, which was humbling. I had mixed feelings of joy, sadness and extreme empathy, which made any problem I might be having, ridiculous. I was so grateful to be of service and be able to compare my life to theirs and think; this could be me, and it can. Take a wrong turn and you end up in dire straits. Luckily this organization is here for them and us.
So, I decided that I needed to stay home after the amazing volunteering experience. Not as alone as the disadvantaged elderly, because I chose it and they didn’t. I needed the time to reflect (and cuddle with Drew). A time to pause and be grateful without the noise. I hope I didn’t offend anyone for turning down their offers which were truly appreciated, but it’s good to pause and think about how good we have it.
And here I am, now, quietly putting my thoughts down, and being very grateful, again, for being so privileged and having so many good friends and family because I am not alone in reality.
Life is good to me.
On Life, Hope y todo lo demás... 
delfin
Happy thanksgiving to you, dear Laura!
Laura Carbonell
Thank you!:)
evambernal
Laurita, un besazo. Eres grande!
Laura Carbonell
Thank you!!
Laura Carbonell
Gracias!
A Well Styled Life
Happy Thanksgiving! Meals on wheels is a wonderful organization. My Mom needed their help for a short time and we were all so grateful to know they could help.
Laura Carbonell
They are amazing!!! And a happy lot! If the person wasn’t there we had to report ASAP! They are truly organized and make sure nobody misses a meal or a gift!
Paul
I spent Thanksgiving alone, too. I didn’t have any invitations to turn down. The next day, someone said, “you should have said something. Someone always has an open seat.” and I felt a little guilty. My mom offered to fly me home, but it was so pricey and I had a lot of work to finish (I am a composer and have a piece premiering soon). Periodically, these waves of guilt come over me. Here’s the thing, yes, I could have volunteered: I have volunteered for many things in the past during the non-holiday season when they need volunteers most. I have donated lots of time and labor to many different charities. I lived with my parents for 2 years of my adult life and have gone home for Thanksgiving many times in the past. I will be with them for 2 months this winter. I am OK with it. It seems that others seem shocked or upset that I spent it alone. I have a good relationship with my family and see them a lot, I have wonderful friends and I love them all. Anyway, I thought I would share. I was looking for other people’s experiences with Thanksgiving alone (but not lonely) and came across your blog. Thank you!
Laura Carbonell
Thank you for sharing! We are not alone or lonely!
Ms.Lake
I really love this post! Thank you for sharing your experience and perspective. Keep going and growing. La vida te da sorpresas!
Laura Carbonell
Gracias!
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