For many, November is one of the most nostalgic and heartwarming months of the year. Nestled between the spooky thrills of Halloween and the festive rush of Christmas, November carries its own special charm, evoking memories of tradition, reflection, and gratitude.
From Election Day in early November to the later crisp, bright days of “Indian Summer,” there’s something magical about this month. The cool nights and warm days, the vibrant leaves falling all around—these moments remind us of fun family outings, football games, and the warmth of gathering around an outdoor fire.
And then there’s Thanksgiving, a time to pause and truly appreciate our blessings.
For more than fifteen years, I’ve asked readers of these Fundraising Tips to share their favorite Thanksgiving memories, and with your help, we’ve always “crowd-sourced” the winners through voting. I must admit, this tradition almost didn’t happen last year, but readers made it clear: “Don’t you dare cancel it!”
The overwhelming response reminded me just how powerful nostalgia can be, not only in our personal lives but also as a tool for storytelling in our work.
The Power of Nostalgia
Did you know that warm memories from past Thanksgivings can actually enhance your enjoyment of the present celebration? We’ve discussed this idea before—the positive emotions associated with memories can often be even stronger than the event itself. Martin Lindstrom, in his book Brandwashed, calls this phenomenon “rosy remembering.”
According to research cited in Scientific American, nostalgia can elevate mood, increase self-esteem, and strengthen relationships. In short, tapping into past experiences can contribute to our overall well-being—and it’s something you might consider incorporating into your own storytelling, especially in your marketing and communications strategies.
Your Thanksgiving Memories
I invite you to share your favorite Thanksgiving memory with our community. Whether it’s funny, heartwarming, or inspirational, your story could be the highlight of someone else’s day. If you’d like to participate, simply email me your story, and I’ll include it in the annual Thanksgiving contest.
And, of course, there’s a prize: the first-place winner gets to choose three books from the Fundraising & Marketing Library or a $75 dining gift certificate. The runners-up will also receive a book of their choice.
As you reflect on your favorite Thanksgiving moments, remember that your memories not only offer a glimpse into the past but can also inspire others and enhance your future celebrations. Through this process, I hope you relive warm memories that will make this Thanksgiving even more special.
