Gratitude in Anime: Family, Friendship, and Life’s Imperfections
Anime often reflects life in ways that inspire us to pause and think. This Thanksgiving, we’re looking at characters who teach us lessons about gratitude—whether it’s through family, friendship, or learning to stand alone. Here’s how these iconic characters remind us of the beauty of imperfection and resilience.
1. Tanjiro & Nezuko Kamado (Demon Slayer)
Studio: Ufotable
Director: Haruo Sotozaki
Tanjiro and Nezuko’s bond is one of the most powerful examples of unconditional love in anime. Despite Nezuko’s transformation into a demon, Tanjiro never gives up on her. He doesn’t see a monster—he sees his little sister, fighting to hold onto her humanity.
This relationship reminds us of the challenges families face and how love and loyalty are the foundation that holds us together. Like Tanjiro, we’re reminded to remain grateful for the bonds that stand strong, even in difficult times.
Where to watch:
Image courtesy of ufotable via Fandom.
2. Edward & Alphonse Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Studio: Bones
Director: Yasuhiro Irie
The Elric brothers’ journey is about love, sacrifice, and the lessons that come with trying to fix what feels broken. Their quest to bring back their mother through alchemy shows us that sometimes the love we’re searching for has been there all along.
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what we already have, rather than chasing what we think we lack. The Elrics teach us that gratitude isn’t about perfection—it’s about appreciating what’s real and being present for those who stand by us.
Where to watch:
Image courtesy of Bones via Fandom.
3. Gon & Killua (Hunter x Hunter)
Studio: Madhouse
Director: Hiroshi Kōjina
Gon and Killua’s friendship shows us the power of found family. Despite coming from vastly different backgrounds, their bond becomes a safe space for growth and understanding. Killua, in particular, learns what it means to feel accepted and loved, even as he struggles with his family’s expectations.
For those with nontraditional families, Gon and Killua are a reminder that love isn’t limited by blood. Gratitude for chosen family and true friendship is something we can all carry into this season of Thanksgiving.
Where to watch:
Image courtesy of Madhouse via Fandom.
4. Yasuke (Yasuke)
Studio: MAPPA
Director: LeSean Thomas
Yasuke offers a unique perspective on gratitude. Isolated and haunted by his past, he embarks on a journey of self-reclamation. His story teaches us that strength comes from within and that being at peace with yourself is just as valuable as external relationships.
Not everyone has family or community during the holidays, and that’s okay. Yasuke reminds us that being grateful for yourself and your own journey is one of the most powerful forms of gratitude.
Where to watch:
Image courtesy of MAPPA via Fandom
5. Michiko & Hatchin (Michiko & Hatchin)
Studio: Manglobe
Director: Sayo Yamamoto
Michiko and Hatchin’s relationship starts as anything but perfect, but as they travel together, they learn to rely on one another. Their dynamic is a reminder that meaningful relationships often come from unexpected places.
Thanksgiving is a time to appreciate those bonds that challenge us, teach us, and help us grow. Michiko and Hatchin show us that gratitude doesn’t have to come from perfection—it comes from the love and connection we build along the way.
Where to watch:
Image courtesy of Manglobe via Fandom
Anime reminds us that life isn’t about perfection—it’s about love, resilience, and gratitude for the journey. Whether it’s through family, friends, or finding strength within, these characters inspire us to appreciate the beauty in life’s imperfections.