Why the modern interpretation of Thanksgiving appeals to me

‘It’s easy to fall into a habit of dissatisfaction, culminating in a sense of uneasiness about our lives. Is this it? Is this all there is? writes Louise O'Neill

Last Thursday marked Thanksgiving Day in the United States and while I’m not sold on the idea of celebrating the genocide of indigenous people (I’m funny that way), there’s something about the modern interpretation of Thanksgiving that appeals to me. It takes all the aspects of Christmas that I like but without all the rampant consumerism. I cannot stand the “If Tiny Tim doesn’t get his Luvabella Doll (yes, I had to Google ‘must have toys for 2017’) then Christmas is ruined!” rhetoric; which is convenient, since I have no children of my own to disappoint/emotionally damage by failing to provide said doll. But Thanksgiving?

A day off work to relax, eat delicious food, and remember to be grateful for all the good in your life? It’s genius. We’ve adopted so many things from the Americans, why can’t we steal Thanksgiving as well?