Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, and has been an annual tradition in the United States since 1863. Thanksgiving was historically a religious observation to give thanks to God. It is thought that the first Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks to God for helping the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony survive their first brutal winter in New England. The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days providing enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. The feast consisted of fowl, venison, fish, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, and squash. William Bradford’s note that, “besides waterfowl, there was great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many,” probably gave rise to the American tradition of eating turkey at Thanksgiving.
Although we no longer celebrate Thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest, we still remain thankful for our health, relationships, and material possessions. It is also a time for sharing with those in need, whether it be family, friends, or strangers. This upcoming Thanksgiving Day, take a moment to reflect on all the things that you should be thankful for, and remember those who are less fortunate. Perhaps you will remember someone that you would like to invite to share your day of Thanksgiving.