A thanksgiving reflection
The historical accuracy of the “first Thanksgiving” is something historians continue to discuss. We all grew up hearing the story of Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a peaceful feast. While that gathering did likely happen, it wasn’t the very first Thanksgiving celebration in history.
Long before America claimed it as a holiday, communities around the world were already holding days of thanksgiving. Church leaders would proclaim a day of gratitude after events such as a successful harvest, a safe journey, or even victory after battle. It reminds me of how cities practically shut down for a championship parade when their team wins the Super Bowl or World Series. People coming together simply to celebrate something good.
Records of Thanksgiving-style feasts go back as early as the 1500s.
Here in the United States, it was George Washington who proclaimed the first nationwide day of Thanksgiving in 1789, setting the foundation for the holiday we recognize today.
Beyond the history, Thanksgiving has always been about connection and gratitude.
It’s one day a year that truly unites us all. It’s a day when we gather with friends and family, share a warm meal, and take a moment to breathe, reset, and acknowledge what’s good. Even in years where the challenges felt heavier than blessings, Thanksgiving pulls us back to what matters.
Notice how calm you feel when you intentionally reflect on the positives in your life. Gratitude has a way of quieting the noise and bringing peace.
Sometimes I think of our minds as a garden. The worries, stress, and negativity are the weeds… always growing, always trying to take over. Gratitude is what clears space so the real beauty can thrive. The weeds will continue to show up, because that’s life. But regularly tending the garden… pulling the weeds, nurturing the joy… is what helps us feel grounded and whole.
We don’t have to wait for the fourth Thursday in November to do it.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful reminder, but gratitude is a practice.
A daily one.
When we regularly focus on the good… big moments, small wins, and everything in between… we create a steady, ongoing sense of peace that stays with us long after the holiday is over.