Like most folks, I love the Christmas season and all it stands for, but Thanksgiving is by far my favorite family holiday.

My entire life, each Thanksgiving has been spent at my parents’ home where my mother cooks the most fantastic meal for her family. The meal seldom changes and it is that good ol’ Mississippi Delta home cooking with the traditional turkey and cornbread dressing, along with sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, cream corn and corn on the cob, homemade yeast rolls and about four different pies.

I know my Mom has spoiled us. I’m aware of that. But I also appreciate as I’ve gotten older what my Mom has done for us every year. I don’t take it for granted because I know one day life will change and her incredible food will no longer be available, nor the love that is sprinkled into each dish along with the calories.

But the food is just one aspect. Mix in family and football and there is no other holiday that can compare, in my opinion, with all the perfect ingredients for a great day.

I’m also reminded and appreciative of being blessed enough to enjoy this family tradition with the ones I love the most in this world, knowing that there are many in our nation — and right here in our community — who do not have that same opportunity.

On this Thanksgiving Day, there are going to be people who will not be able to enjoy a home-cooked meal, much less turkey and dressing, for one reason or another. Some are homeless, some are poor, some are on military duty protecting our freedoms.

So when you sit down this afternoon, hopefully with your family and friends, keep in mind those who do not have the blessings many of us are fortunate to enjoy. Say a little prayer for these folks when you thank God for all He has blessed you with.

Rob Sigler is managing editor of the Oxford   ��   EAGLE. Contact him at rob.sigler@oxfordeagle.com.