Every year around the fourth week of November, many of us gather around the table to celebrate one of our favorite holidays of the year, Thanksgiving. Although the holiday is celebrated across the country, the original story and meaning is usually lost.
Many families celebrate the holiday by feasting, watching football games, attending family reunions, and preparing for the Black Friday shopping spree. However, for my family, this holiday is a gathering around the table to eat some turkey and enjoy each other’s company.
The first “Thanksgiving” was not meant as a feast nor a holiday, but instead a gathering that lasted three days. The gathering of Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians was an English harvest festival that occurred in 1621. June of 1676 was the first Thanksgiving meal ever celebrated. The day took place in Charleston, Massachusetts, and was recognized as a day to give thanks for good fortune.
The traditions originally associated with the Thanksgiving holiday have slowly been lost since America adopted it in 1863. The holiday has become more meal-centered with family and friends.
Thanksgiving was originally meant to be an expression of love and gratitude. This holiday season, take time out to appreciate of all the amazing opportunities, support, and love your family and friends have offered you.
