In many ways, Thanksgiving is the best and worst of the annual holidays. It represents family, community, and gratitude for our collective American heritage. (Not to mention historically poor football.) It also signifies the beginning of the Christmas shopping frenzy. Instead of focusing on what Thanksgiving is NOT, let’s quickly discuss what it IS.
Thanksgiving is the one holiday, above all others, that unites us as Americans. It does not matter whether you are Christian, Jew, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, or atheist. It does not matter whether you identify as a Republican or a Democrat. It only matters that we live under the same Flag and Constitution.
We gather around a table laden with turkey and side dishes to celebrate our common bond as Americans. I’m sure the Pilgrims did not envision cranberries from a can or turkeys the size of livestock, but I think they would smile at the bond this holiday provides across our great Nation.
This does not mean the more religious holidays are something less than Thanksgiving. Instead, it means people of all faith groups can celebrate their commonalities rather than their differences. What is more American than that?
I think we would all agree, one of our most important roles as Dads is to set an example for our kids. As we gather around our tables today, may we set a standard of mutual respect for our fellow Americans. We may have come from divergent backgrounds, varying world views, and even foreign lands, yet we can all find a seat around the Thanksgiving table.
Happy Thanksgiving, Dads!
Keep it up! You’re making a difference!
Jeff
