This Thanksgiving, we could have gone the classic route, writing about the history of the holiday or how to celebrate as Catholics. We could have even done a general piece on cultivating gratitude.
But this year, we’re taking an outside-the-box approach: focusing on those of us who are still navigating our vocational journeys. Just like Thanksgiving reminds us to appreciate the blessings in our lives, the journey to finding one’s vocation is a season that calls for gratitude in all its ups and downs.
While you’re waiting for what’s next—whether it’s marriage, religious life, or wherever God calls you—there’s so much to be thankful for in this season of your life.
So, in order to be mindful of this holiday, here’s a list of 20 reasons to celebrate singleness and why this unique time is a blessing all on its own:
1. Spontaneous Sleepovers
Crash with friends anytime.
2. Someone Else is “Growing Up” for You
Your future spouse is maturing on their own journey.
3. Schedule Freedom
Prioritize what you want, whether it’s service or self-care.
4. Family Time for the Holidays
No need to juggle multiple gatherings.
5. Spontaneity
Say yes to trips, outings, or even a retreat on a whim.
6. Roommate Joy
Enjoy dance parties and shaping each other in unique ways.
7. Uninterrupted Reading
Curl up with a good book anytime.
8. Prayer Focus
No interruptions; just you and God.
9. Only One Laundry Basket
No little ones’ clothes piling up.
10. Cooking Experiments
Try new recipes just for fun.
11. New Hobbies
Discover interests and passions you didn’t know you had.
12. Meaningful Friendships
Be available for deep, open conversations.
13. Investing in Family Bonds
Time to be close with siblings and parents as adults.
14. Self-Growth
Become someone you would want to be with; build virtues.
15. Spiritual Mentorship
Priests and mentors are there for your growth.
16. Meeting New People
Every new person you meet adds richness.
17. Learning from Friends’ Marriages
Gain insights for your own future.
18. Creating Traditions/Rituals
Start simple and make a daily prayer routine or doing a certain activity to commemorate your favorite saint on their feast day.
19. Financial Freedom
Save and prepare for the future.
20. Radical Giving
Serve the Church and others in ways that deepen your faith.
This season is about more than waiting—it’s about living fully. This Thanksgiving, let’s give thanks for the freedom, growth, and joy that singlehood brings, seeing it as part of the journey God has uniquely designed for us. So, here’s to finding gratitude in the here and now, and embracing the journey with joy.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Additional Resources
Looking for more lists to learn from and get inspired by? Check these out: 19 Ways to Show Appreciation to Your Parish Priest, Your Favorite Saints’ Favorite Saints, 10 Advent Songs to Get You in The Spirit, These SEEK Talks Will Change Your Life, 3 Reasons I Love St. Thérèse So Much, 5 Lessons from St. Josephine Bakhita, 5 Ways to Pray to Mary, 10 Ways to Evangelize (as a Catholic), 4 Ways to Grow in Holiness with St. Therese, 25 Patron Saints of Really Random Things, 10 Great Scripture Passages for Lectio Divina.
Give
