Changing my Hollywood perception of Thanksgiving

I moved to the United States of America six years ago with a Hollywood perception about Thanksgiving — the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, turkey-infused merchandise plastered across stores, and an endless array of food packed into a single day of celebration.

I spent my first USA thanksgiving standing alongside New Yorkers and tourists alike watching that infamous Macy's parade — and of course finding some turkey to eat in the middle of the New York chaos. In my mind, this was a true American Thanksgiving.

As my initial days in America turned into years of living here, my kids educated me on the real meaning and significance of Thanksgiving, and I asked my friends and peers at work about what the holiday truly meant to them. From their gracious sharing, a seed of appreciation and love for the true purpose of Thanksgiving grew. 

I love the fact that Thanksgiving is absolutely inclusive — it's for everybody that lives in this land — including folks like myself, who are recent transplants. It's a moment in the year where people reflect on what and who they're grateful for in life. Sometimes it's difficult to call somebody out of nowhere to say "thank you," but Thanksgiving provides the opportunity to share that appreciation without feeling cheesy. 

I treasure Thanksgiving so much that I now share it with my family and friends in my home country of Argentina by inviting them every year to come join me here in the USA to celebrate. Of course, they have to help cook! 

As I reflect upon 2019 and this season, I want to take a moment now to say thank you first to my team. I've found a home among the IBM North America Partner Ecosystem community that has welcomed me and celebrated my cultural differences — for which I'm deeply grateful and proud to be an IBMer. Thank you to each IBM Business Partner for allowing me to learn from you and find areas where I can help improve your experience with IBM. This is my passion and I’m sure together we will change the world (and make money - can't forget the end of 4Q is approaching!) 

Finally, thank you to the larger US community for teaching me so many traditions that are different from my homeland and for letting me embrace this beautiful country and community.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving