My family does not include me in their Thanksgivings, or remember me in particular on that day or any holiday. My friends are usually all busy with their family or more important friends on that day, and this Thanksgiving was no different. My neighbors have their own lives. I don't expect or really even hope to be included any longer since over time I have come to terms with how holidays are not a time I am a part of anybody's life. It still feels bad to be isolated or excluded.

I made some great turkey day food this year including dessert. I found someone else who doesn't have a family that cares, and doesn't have a big fancy life or friends who care that way. I loaded up a manly portion of all the holiday foods and a nice big dessert portion too, and dropped it off to him at his work all piping hot on Thanksgiving day. I ate my meal in the silence of my 2 rooms, went to bed. When I got my dishes back on Saturday I found that my actions had created a wholeness and a warmth for someone who had not felt that way before I brought the gift of food, which was really the gift of caring. I can't fix how my family treats me but that doesn't mean I can't help others make the most of the day.

It is not what the action is that is so important sometimes, it is what we really mean in the actions we take, in every little thing we do.

This is a lovely thread, hottea. What you did was extremely kind, and I wish more people had the confidence to make a gesture like that. You're absolutely right: It is the thought that counts, as they say

Hottea, that's great! Are you now friends with the person? I'd have tried to nab him and invite him over to eat or go to his place and eat with him! Next time, tho! I dare you to try it! :D ;)