Thanksgiving Day is a noun. It’s a national holiday commemorating a three day feast, enjoyed by the Pilgrims and their Native American Wampanoag allies, to celebrate the Pilgrims’ first successful corn harvest in November, 1621. The Pilgrims provided fowl, the Wampanoag brought deer. There was also an assortment of vegetables, but no pies!
Thanksgiving is a verb. It’s an action. Giving thanks. Expressing gratitude. Acknowledging gifts. That’s the real purpose of this day.
There are many different things going on today – travel, cooking and baking, family meals, football watching, board game playing, perhaps even shopping. It can also be a very stressful day for some as busyness takes over or family conflicts are faced. There may be sadness over recent loss or challenge. Hopefully, not lost in all of that is the notion of pausing a few moments, acknowledging the gifts in our lives, and being grateful for them.
Today, I am thankful for the life I live.
I have a wonderful husband and family, a comfortable home, and a good job. I never want for food, clothes, or medical care. We all enjoy good overall health. Our children are successful and happy. Our grandchildren have brought our family joy to a whole new level. My mind is challenged, my heart is full and my soul is at peace.
No matter what life circumstance you find yourself in, I hope you can also reflect on the good in your life. I think this quote says it all:
The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. ~H.U. Westermayer
Happy Thanksgiving!
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