In “Making A Place At The Table For Grief On Thanksgiving: The holidays aren’t easy for everyone,” published in BuzzFeed in 2013, BuzzFeed Literary Editor, Saeed Jones, weaves the story of loss during the holidays by presenting individual narratives – short notes offered by his friends – of remembrance of loved ones, traditions changed, and profound sadness around Thanksgiving.

Many people are grieving. I am reminded of the idea that grief is the price we pay for love. Reflecting on the enormity of grief, beyond the grief many feel every year around this time, feels important. Many have experienced loss this year. Many who have been sick still suffer. Many have lost all economic security and experience hunger and homelessness. The wounds of cruel world have been laid bare. Within this overwhelming frame, we are asked to give thanks.

Giving thanks looks like the gift of being present to ourselves and others. Giving thanks looks like taking a deep breath again, and again, and again until we feel gentle in our bones. Giving thanks looks like allowing the stillness that allows noise and fear and anger to fall away. Giving thanks looks like taking stock of what really matters. Giving thanks this year is about making room at the table, wherever that table is, for grief.