In an atmosphere of constant change, it’s easy to look forward to the next big thing. New Year. Graduation. Summer. School. Halloween. Christmas. Repeat.

Now that Halloween is over, we approach Christmas as a “next big thing.” People stretch the Christmas season from Nov. 1 through Dec. 25. But what about Thanksgiving?

Because of early shopping sales, premature Christmas music and more sales (i.e. Black Friday) the US overlooks arguably the most gratuitous time of year: Thanksgiving.

While a season full of tidings and yule brings joy to families across the world, we need to step back and enjoy the more humble holiday.

The purpose of Thanksgiving is to do just that: give.

The giving in Thanksgiving does not include gifts, but the simplicity of taking time to spend with your family and being grateful for everything your life has provided.

Every season, there is a chance that Black Friday and the talk of Christmas gifts can ruin the simplicity. Family members skip dinner to line up at Best Buy, awaiting its early opening at midnight.

But at what cost?

While the earlier hours and huge sales may be beneficial for businesses, people are waiting in cold tents on concrete only to be trampled and beat to the best deals. Meanwhile, their families are in warm homes feasting on hearty food, listening to stories and playing in the annual poker game.

While Christmas has become more materialistic, Thanksgiving stays true to its uncomplicated and humble tradition of gratitude.

In a time-intensive world where it is normal to move quickly on from one thing to the next, we should all take what little time we have over Thanksgiving break to be grateful for our families, friends and the time we have to celebrate.