“Personal stories as cultures meet at Thanksgiving”
Being a Host: More than Just a Program
This year, as a graduate student at Purdue University, I had the privilege of experiencing the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving through the Host-A-Boiler program. Together with my husband, Joe, who was celebrating Thanksgiving for the first time, we experienced two memorable celebrations on the same day.
An Unforgettable Morning in the Beck Family
The Beck family - Ben, Nettie, Michaela, and Breanna - opened the doors of their home to about 30 international students. Their home became a melting pot of cultures: Jonathan Marts from Colorado and Laura from Indianapolis, Eduardo and Juan from Mexico, Monica and Sophia from Colombia, Edward Lee from South Korea, Abhijit from Bangladesh, and Siva, Angkon, Shahity, Priya, and Pretty from India. Not to mention friends from Iran and Ukraine who added to the colorful diversity, what was heartwarming was the Beck family's detailed attention to each guest's dietary needs. Each dish was clearly labeled with its ingredients - something I rarely see in Indonesia. It's not just about Halal-non-Halal, but also considering lactose intolerance and other dietary restrictions. A valuable lesson on inclusivity in togetherness. Mrs. Nettie and Mr. Ben shared interesting stories about their trip to Indonesia, exploring remote islands in Sumatra, Medan, and other small towns. I couldn't help but smile when Mrs Nettie mentioned dumplings as her favorite food from Indonesia.
A Warm Evening with the Indonesian Community
Later that evening, the mood changed when we attended the second celebration at Ka Pam and Ka David's house; our Indonesian #FriendFamily Here, American Thanksgiving blended perfectly with the warmth of an Indonesian get-together. Their home was filled with the warmth of extended family: Daniel and Sasa, Ka Diana, Ka Rizki with Rafa, Ka Fany and Ka Aldi with Chaca, Ka Laily and Ka Herman, Ka Hilda, Ka Aji with Nasaka and Astra, Ka Adit, Ka Dayat, and Ka Filza who came all the way from Champaign. The tantalizing aroma of Indonesian food filled the room - steaming meatballs, fragrant chicken noodles, crispy fried tempeh, still-warm siomay, and mouth-watering roast duck and chicken. All of this harmoniously coexisted with the family's Korean dishes that also enlivened the celebration. The atmosphere was alive with the giggles of children playing, karaoke tunes playing, and chatter flowing until 9pm - creating a very special Thanksgiving night with an Indonesian twist.
Reflections of Two Worlds
The experience of celebrating Thanksgiving in two different places in one day gave us a unique perspective on how a tradition can be adapted and enriched by different cultures. At the Beck family home, we experienced Thanksgiving in its most traditional American form, while at Ka Pam's home, we saw how this tradition can blend harmoniously with Indonesian culture. From these, I still vividly remember how I first learned the true meaning of Thanksgiving. It's not just about roasted turkey or festive parades, but a moment that teaches us about the deep values of life.
Inspiring History
Imagine traveling back in time to 1621. A group of Pilgrims struggling in a foreign land, meet with the unexpected kindness of the Wampanoag tribe. This story has always warmed my heart - how two disparate groups can come together in gratitude and sharing.This year, as a graduate student at Purdue University, I had the privilege of experiencing the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving through the Host-A-Boiler program. This 10-year-old program connects international students with local families, creating a meaningful cultural bridge.
Warmth in the midst of diversity
On a campus that is home to nearly 10,000 international students, Thanksgiving is a special moment to feel the warmth of family in the midst of diversity. Purdue Dining & Culinary even prepared a special feast with 5,200 pounds of turkey, 2,150 pounds of ham, and 1,200 pies to celebrate this moment.
A Unifying Tradition
The Host-A-Boiler program opened my eyes to how a tradition can be a unifying bridge. The hosts not only opened the doors of their homes, but also opened their hearts to share their culture and family warmth.
The Meaning Behind the Celebration
Thanksgiving taught us; Joe and I that beyond the differences in culture, ethnicity, and nation, there are universal values that unite:
- Gratitude for the blessings of life
- The importance of togetherness and sharing
- Appreciating diversity as wealth
Personal Reflection
Amidst the hustle and bustle of campus life, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder for me to pause. Seeing how many blessings I have received, including the opportunity to study in a foreign country and meet friends from all over the world.
Family and Togetherness
This year, Purdue's Thanksgiving tradition was made even more special with the International Education Week activities held from November 17-22, 2024. This moment is proof that education is not just about books and classes, but also about understanding and appreciating differences. Perhaps this is what makes Thanksgiving relevant even after 400 years - its ability to bring people of different backgrounds around a table, sharing stories and gratitude. In an era that often feels divided, we need more moments like this. I thankful for my health, my life, my study, my husband, my family and this blessing opportunity to meet all good people here. So, what are you thankful for this year?
Let's make every Thanksgiving a reminder that in this challenging life, there are always reasons to be grateful and share.
🦃✨#ThanksgivingAtPurdue#InternationalStudent#GratitudeJourney#CulturalDiversiy #LifeReflections
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