Are We Doing Thanksgiving Wrong?

Thanksgiving originated in the time of the pilgrims. They were truly thankful for the help the Native Americans provided them with and they were also grateful that they had enough food to live. Additionally, they were thankful for the family they still had, when many of their loved ones had not made it through the hard times. They bonded with each other and were content with the new friends and relationships to fill the void of those they had lost. By today’s standards, the pilgrims should complain and claim they had an unfair life but instead, people from earlier times had a different perspective. They did not think about what they were without but knew to be pleased with what they already had. They scavenged tirelessly to collect all the things they needed for their very special day. Expending effort to make the day perfect and to ensure everyone had a great time.

When asked presently, most will say there is at least one thing they dread doing every Thanksgiving. Whether it be the rotten company they have, the dry turkey they eat, or the long travel to sleep on a couch. We as a society do not reflect on how grateful we are to have family, food and a place to sleep. Yes, we put in the slightest bit of effort, cleaning the house or buying things from the grocery store. But it is nowhere close to the work the pilgrims had to undergo. We selfishly view it as a misfortune. Adding to our unappreciative behavior, the next day, we buy gifts that we also do not need. Our country views gifts as a right rather than a privilege. Some even take it a step further and complain when there is not as many gifts as they would expect.

If our community was asked who took time out of their Thanksgiving day to say thank you to those who make an impact in their life and think of everything they are rewarded with, most would say they weren’t or have a very short list. We have all created a very self centered mindset. There is no understanding that every day is a blessing, a roof over our heads is a blessing, food on the table is a blessing.

Next Thanksgiving, in order to celebrate it right, we must take a moment to thank those important to us and to consider all we are indebted for.