How Differences are Unified in Thanksgiving

By: Brett Briggeman

Thanksgiving is a federal holiday in the United States and is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Thanksgiving is also celebrated in other countries such as Canada, Grenada, Saint Lucia and Liberia. It began as a day of thanks for the blessings of the harvest and of the preceding year.

During Thanksgiving, people travel to visit family and to celebrate this tradition with their loved ones. Though it may not be as popular as Christmas, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reconnect with the people we care about. We get to spend time with them and hear about how they have been and about all the new things in their lives. Americans tend to celebrate Thanksgiving differently, but there are things throughout the various cultures represented in this country that help us unify.

Firstly, it is a time when people come together to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. Whether we are grateful for the opportunities we have received or simply for the people around us, we all have something to be thankful for this season, no matter how big or small it may seem. Practicing gratitude helps us stay grounded in humility, as well as helping us connect with those around us.

Secondly, it is a time to celebrate the rich history and culture of the United States. Thanksgiving has roots in the early days of American history when tradition dictates that the Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered together in a spirit of friendship and thankfulness. America is a nation of immigrants and therefore Thanksgiving serves as  a reminder of all the different cultures represented here in the United States of America. Though we may have our differences, there are many ways we connect and celebrate what unites us, and Thanksgiving is certainly one of them. 

Finally, Thanksgiving is an opportunity for families and friends to spend time together, share stories and create new memories. Family is an integral part of our lives, and Thanksgiving is an opportunity to celebrate them and to remember those who are sadly no longer with us. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to be grateful for everything meaningful in your life, big or small. Each day is a gift, so enjoy life as much as possible, living each day to the fullest. Happy Thanksgiving, Hardin-Simmons!