As Jason and I have done for the past 20 years, we held an open house for friends for Thanksgiving dinner — this year hosting ten people. It’s the only dinner of the year that I personally cook, and I truly believe our friends come to laugh at how bad my attempts are. My first try at making mashed potatoes was a perfect example of what was to come.
I called my friend Rita for full instructions and followed them carefully — or so I thought. It seemed easy enough: cut the potatoes, then mash them. What she forgot to mention was to cook the potatoes before using the mixer. Needless to say, the raw potatoes went flying around the kitchen, hitting the walls, the ceiling, and, of course, everyone watching. That moment became legendary, and while my cooking has improved somewhat, the stuffing remains my Achilles’ heel. Each year, I try a new recipe — let’s just say some attempts work, and others… don’t.
Fridays are reserved for brunch with family, which is truly close to my heart. My family has supported my work throughout my entire life, including during a time when simply being out could land you in jail (something they became used to). Over the years, I’ve realized that some of their friends or extended family might have harassed them for their unwavering support of me. For that, I am both deeply thankful and regretful that my work has sometimes meant less time spent with them.
Thanksgiving, to me, is a time to reflect on how lucky I am and to express gratitude to those who have shaped my journey. This year, I felt the need to tell all of them just how important they are in my life and to thank them for giving me the strength to do what I believe is right — even during times when most believed it was wrong.
So, that is my Thanksgiving message: to my family, my friends, and to all of you out there who have supported my work over the last 55 years — Thank you!
Mark Segal is an American journalist. He is the founder and publisher of Philadelphia Gay News and has won numerous journalism awards for his column “Mark My Words,” including best column by The National Newspaper Association, Suburban Newspaper Association and The Society of Professional Journalists.