Thanksgiving is an American tradition – friends and family, celebrating our good fortune and even our bad – and enjoying an autumn day filled with football games, feeling warm and cozy, bellying up to the table, and that food coma to follow.
It is a time of swearing off of diets and enjoying the meal.
We’ve been celebrating Thanksgiving since the 1600s by some estimates. Others will tell you we started celebrating in 1863. In any case, Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks for all our blessings. It is just a good practice. As a rule, I give thanks every day for my blessings large and small.
A typical Thanksgiving dinner consists of a time-proven menu dating back to New England harvest celebrations – turkey (naturally), potatoes in all forms, squash, cranberries, primarily pumpkin pie, and more. Every part of the United States celebrates with different foods and customs. What has long been customary isn’t so customary anymore. Such is life in the world’s melting pot with all of our different cultures and beliefs. The key word is acceptance.
Thanksgiving is also a time of giving to those less fortunate – charitable organizations, a troubled neighbor, a friend in need, local food banks and homeless institutions – the list goes on. I make it a habit of donating to charitable organizations like the Red Cross, St. Judes, Veterans organizations, food banks for the hungry, and more finances permitting. It feels good to serve others.
Young people have come up with something known as “Friendsgiving…” to celebrate friends giving to each other in an atmosphere of mutual respect and love. Without respect, there cannot be love. I will cite you an example. My 16-year-old son just hosted a “Friendsgiving” celebration here at the house with a terrific group of friends from his high school marching band. It was a wonderful time with laughter, hugs, and celebration.
We tend to rag on young people – however – there’s really nothing to worry about. These were responsible 16–18-year-olds having a wonderful time in one another’s company. When it was over, they cleaned up the place and loaded a trash bag. They collectively thanked us for the hospitality and drove away quietly. They didn’t burn the place down. What’s more, their manners were impeccable.
Our future is in capable hands.
“Friendgiving” should become a tradition celebrated across the land regardless of how divided we have become. In the end, we must remember we’re each here for a short time and must find a path to peace and civility. Our very survival counts on it. What’s more, it just feels good.
Boomer Journey... 