Out of them shall come songs of thanksgiving, and the voices of those who celebrate. I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will make them honored, and they shall not be small. – Jeremiah 30:19
Perhaps the most defining aspect of the month of November is the Thanksgiving holiday. Though a day spent with family or friends, it is also a day where feasting is plentiful. A few suggestions come to mind.
Your traditional dinner probably offers a number of foods that are rarely seen throughout the year. Items such as candied yams or pumpkin pie are real favorites. So, enjoy them, just remember the importance of portion control. A little of this, a little of that, will satisfy your pallet.
What’s more, take only the foods you truly want; you are not obligated to fill your plate with foods you don’t really like.
And along those lines, try to keep in mind the difference between appetite and hunger. Whereas hunger is a true physiological state in which your body needs food, appetite is more external. It can be triggered by the fragrance of food or the sight of it. Basically, it’s need vs. want.
Another positive step is, when the meal is over, put the food away. Not only is it wise to do so, in order to avoid spoilage, but it will keep everyone from picking at food that they really don’t want or need. Again, as an extension of appetite, we often consume food, simply because it is there.
Above all, delight in your Thanksgiving holiday. If clothes feel a touch snug at the conclusion of the day, don’t stress about it. It’s just one day and it is meant to be enjoyed.
