The Joy of the Journey
Thanksgiving: The Forgotten Holiday
Ok, Bah Humbug! Just kidding, before I start, I do love Christmas. However, my favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. For me, Thanksgiving is full of rich memories…I call them the three “F’s”: family, food, and football! Thanksgiving is a holiday that often gets overshadowed by Christmas. It seems like everyone jumps straight into the Christmas spirit, leaving Thanksgiving behind in the dust. But this forgotten holiday deserves recognition for its unique traditions and values, making it a special time of year. The Word of God states it this way in Psalm 107:1: “Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!”
Thanksgiving has deep roots in American history, dating back to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to celebrate a successful harvest. Since then, it has evolved into a day for gathering with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and enjoying a hearty meal together. Despite its historical significance and meaningful traditions, Thanksgiving has become somewhat of an afterthought in the holiday season.
One of the main reasons Thanksgiving is often overlooked is its proximity to Christmas. The commercialization of Christmas has made it a dominant force in the holiday season, with stores putting up decorations and playing carols as early as October. This early onset of the Christmas frenzy can make Thanksgiving feel like just a pit stop on the way to the main event.
In addition, the emphasis on shopping and consumerism during the holiday season has shifted attention away from the simple pleasures of Thanksgiving. Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, has become synonymous with sales, discounts, and long store lines. This focus on material goods can detract from the true spirit of Thanksgiving, which is about giving thanks for what we already have rather than seeking out more.
Despite these challenges, Thanksgiving still holds a special place in many people’s hearts. It offers a rare opportunity to pause and reflect on our gratitude, whether for our health, our loved ones, or the simple joys of everyday life. Expressinggratitude can profoundly impact our well-being, helping us cultivate a positive mindset and appreciate the good in our lives.
Another reason Thanksgiving deserves more recognition is its emphasis on togetherness and connection. It is a time for families and friends to come together, share a meal, and create lasting memories. Sitting down at the table together and enjoying a feast can foster a sense of unity and closeness often lacking in our fast-paced, digital world. For some families, it is a rare thing to sit at a table together and eat a meal.
The traditional Thanksgiving meal also deserves a mention. From the juicy turkey to the creamy mashed potatoes to the pecan pie or sweet pumpkin pie, the holiday’s highlight brings people together in a shared experience. Cooking and eating together can create a sense of camaraderie and joy that is hard to replicate in any other setting.
In recent years, there has been a push to bring Thanksgiving back into the spotlight and reclaim its status as a cherished holiday. Some retailers have closed their doors on Thanksgiving Day, allowing employees to spend time with their families instead of working long hours. This gesture acknowledges the importance of taking a break and prioritizing personal relationships over profits.
Moreover, there has been a growing movement to focus on the spirit of gratitude and giving back during Thanksgiving. Many communities organize food drives, volunteer opportunities, and charitable events to help those in need and spread the message of kindness and compassion. These initiatives highlight the true essence of Thanksgiving and remind us of the power of coming together to impact the world positively.
Thanksgiving may be forgotten in the shadow of Christmas, but its traditions and values are worth celebrating and preserving. By taking the time to express gratitude, connect with loved ones, and enjoy a festive meal together, we can rediscover the beauty and significance of Thanksgiving. Let us not overlook this special holiday but embrace it with open hearts and minds, appreciating all it offers. Over the next few weeks, I will be writing articles about Thanksgiving. I pray these articles will deepen our desire to live a life, not just a day of Thanksgiving!
