mamadelvec-shares

It is almost upon us. The air has turned crisp, the trees have just about dropped their final leaves, and the light of day has become shorter. As a country we are about to share a feast. In a week most families/friends will indulge on appetizers, delectable fall vegetables, along with a juicy turkey to be carved just right. In America, although Thanksgiving is not always hosted on the same date each year, it is always celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November.

Historically Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks and sacrifice for the blessing of the harvest. For more than two centuries colonies and states celebrated this day. It became one of our nations national holidays in the midst of the Civil War, when then President Abraham Lincoln declared it so. Prior to this declaration, Lincoln’s predecessors held many days giving thanks throughout our beloved nation, but in 1863 it became an official holiday. Of course, FDR, did try to change the date during the Great Depression, but with great opposition he eventually conceded to the former.

Today a lot has changed regarding Thanksgiving. It no longer has much to do with religion, as it did in America’s early years. It now focuses on the plentiful meal. Many Americans volunteer and serve those less fortunate, while food pantries are stocked to help those in need. Others attend parades to kick off the Christmas season, while yet others still find complaint with the way history portrays Thanksgiving.

Myself, I choose to donate food to help my fellow neighbor enjoy a hearty meal. Our Thanksgiving has evolved through the years, also. My husband and I for many years hosted this traditional meal at our home with our family and extended families. Since we moved, 10 years ago, we have been sharing this event with our new friends and neighbors.

Obviously our tradition has changed, as with many families, but there is one thing that I hope never does; and that is giving thanks for the abundance of blessings we have been so fortunate to possess. We have been blessed with a wonderful and dear family, grandchildren, friends, and colleagues. We are grateful for a beautiful home, the warmth of contentment upon entry, and a happy and healthy life shared.

May Thanksgiving 2021 be special to us all. Let us give thanks for all our loved ones, whether near or far. Let us remember with love and gratitude all those who we have lost, but whose presence is always within our hearts. Let us give thanks for our own lives and the potential of each and every day.

Happy Thanksgiving,

mamadelvec