Today is the day that we are supposed to recognize the abundance afforded us. Of course, many of us have still not recovered from the Great Recession (especially in rural America and the Midwest). But, being the optimistic people we are, we all seem to be bound and determined to celebrate Thanksgiving. Unfortunately (this is my opinion), many of us are also bound and determined to wait on line for an interminable duration just to score that one sale item.

Thanksgiving is analogous to the holiday of Sukot, one of the three Festivals outlined in the Bible. Back years ago, Sukot was very close to the time America celebrated the secular Thanksgiving, long before the date was moved. (The holiday of Thanksgiving is still celebrated on the second Monday of October in Canada, which is about the time the holiday was first celebrated- akin to the actual date of Sukot.)

In America, we think Thanksgiving derives from the first time the Pilgrims celebrated some 400 years ago in Plymouth (1621). Of course, it had been celebrated in England before that date- so it’s not surprising that the transplanted Englanders would continue the tradition, when they came to North America.

Of course, most of us have nothing to do with farming or any sort of harvest, but we celebrate nevertheless. We continue (???) that tradition by devouring a turkey, replete with cranberry sauce. And, in many households, pigging out on TV football events. To be followed by the rush and crush to spend one’s hard earned money on Friday- Black Friday- the first official day of Christmas Excess…

I am thrilled my family doesn’t so participate. But, whatever your tradition, I wish you a grand holiday. And, hope that you do reflect on all those great things in your life for which we should be thankful… each and every day of our lives.

Because America is great. And, it’s great because we Americans are still an optimistic nation. Now, we just have to remember to work together.

Share this: