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11/27/2025 - At the Marianas Business Plaza’s Sabalu Market last Nov. 22, Marianas Press asked residents what they are most thankful for Thanksgiving. Their replies—warm, candid, and rooted in faith—reflect the spirit of the islands.
One cheerful marketgoer kept it simple: “I’m thankful for life, I’m thankful for health, I’m thankful for God, for family, and just the community. I appreciate the opportunity to be able to speak on camera, but yeah, definitely God, life, community, health.”
A senior vendor was overflowing with gratitude. “First of all, I would like to thank our God, who blesses us with everything for having a family,” she said. “He gave me beautiful children, and they’re already successful in their careers.”
She added that she and her husband are “69 years old and here I’m still kicking and healthy,” and that her small business, running since 2011, continues to be “a very grateful blessing for me.” She also prayed that God “continue to bless our community… even though we’re struggling, but we’re still healthy here, working, everybody, they’re all happy.”
Two teenage girls pointed to faith and friendship. “We’re thankful for our supportive friends and family, and God, you know, yeah,” one said. Her friend added, “I’m thankful for my best friends, and I’m thankful for God… keep pushing me forward when things get hard. He guides us.” They also shared how grateful they were for their parents and families.
A father-in-law wandering through the market reflected on the meaning of the holiday. “Thanksgiving, that’s where family meets, and you get to enjoy each other’s company around good food and reminisce about old times,” he said.
“Family, friends, relatives of any type, you’re welcome. And then you look outside, and you look at nature, and you look at everything that God has given us.”
A new homeowner said this year feels particularly special. “This Thanksgiving I’m thankful for health, my children, family, and my co-workers,” she said. “We just moved into our first house, so I’m hoping to host my family for our first Thanksgiving at our own home.”
A teenage boy with sunglasses said he was grateful for “my family being around, you know, the many food we can feast on and the many memories we make.” As for plans, he laughed: “Honestly, we don’t really have a set plan, but my family really… they really put up something, you know, really good.”
A baseball coach summed up his gratitude simply: “I’m thankful to God and to our family.” He added that he hopes the community also keeps “our less fortunate” in mind. He plans to celebrate “with my siblings and our families together.”
Report by Mark Rabago
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