In 1963, the Thanksgiving menu in the Better Homes and Gardens Birthdays and Family Celebrations cookbook included roast turkey, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean almonds, cranberry sauce, and rolls. Bob Dylan did warn his fellow Americans a year later, though, that “the times they are a-changin’”; and indeed, according to my survey of MICDS students this week, while several of the aforementioned staples remain popular, what do you suppose is the number-one Thanksgiving favorite in Ram Nation 2024? Why, macaroni and cheese, of course! The people have spoken!
In the same survey, I noted that “Thanksgiving is, literally, a holiday about gratitude” and asked, “For what gifts, relationships, opportunities, or blessings in your life are you most grateful this Thanksgiving season?” Student responses included “family” and “friends” most often, and “grateful” and “thankful” themselves were also frequently mentioned. Why take my word for it, though, when you can listen to this turkey?
In a speech delivered at the Roman Forum over two thousand years ago, Cicero contended that gratitude is “not only the greatest virtue, but the mother of all other virtues.” What he knew then we still know today—that our gratitude precedes our goodness, and that grateful hearts are strong hearts. What good health we give ourselves with three simple words: I am thankful. “I am grateful for clean water and a roof to sleep under at night,” wrote one of our seventh-grade students in reply to my survey question. “I am grateful for my opportunity to go to such an amazing school and to have an amazing education. I am grateful for all of my super supportive friends and my family.” These are the beatings of a strong and strengthening heart.
Always reason, always compassion, always courage. I wish you and your loved ones full bellies and full hearts alike in this season of thanksgiving.
Jay Rainey
Head of School
There are two additions this week to the “Refrains for Rams” playlist: Makin’ Whoopee by Dinah Washington and One Hundred Ways by James Ingram. Both recordings were arranged by the incomparable Quincy Jones—the first when he was only 23 years old. Jones, whose middle name was Delight, brought joy through music to countless millions of people across a career spanning decades. He died earlier this month at the age of 91 (Apple Music / Spotify).