As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, it marks the beginning of the festive season—a time filled with traditions, gratitude, and connection. Regardless of religious affiliations or cultural backgrounds, Thanksgiving resonates with two powerful words: Thanks and Giving.
What is Thanksgiving All About?
According to Wikipedia, Thanksgiving is a national or cultural holiday celebrated across various countries. Its roots lie in religious and harvest traditions, and at its core, it’s an expression of gratitude, often directed toward God.
For me, this description reflects something deeply heartwarming. The idea of being in a state of gratitude—to God or the divine connection within each of us—is both kind and loving. Thanksgiving transcends differences, reminding us of the universal resonance of gratitude and its power to bring people together.
The Resonance of Gratitude
Thanksgiving creates a feeling that words often cannot fully describe. It’s a resonance—a deep inner connection that unites families, friends, and even strangers. Whether you’re celebrating at home, at a restaurant, or with a group that holds meaning for you, the heart of Thanksgiving lies in the shared experience of gratitude and connectedness.
It’s not just about the meal or the traditions. It’s about celebrating the relationships and bonds that make life meaningful. Through this resonance of gratitude, we strengthen our connection to one another and to the greater Allness that surrounds us.
Thanksgiving Around the World
Thanksgiving isn’t just an American tradition. It’s celebrated across the globe, from Canada to Brazil, Grenada, Saint Lucia, and Liberia. Each culture brings its unique reasons and customs to the table, but the shared themes of thankfulness, gratitude, and freedom connect us all.
In the United States, Thanksgiving commemorates the 1621 harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims and Indigenous peoples. Marked by religious observances and a traditional meal (often including turkey), it’s a day that families gather to express gratitude and create lasting memories.
Celebrating Gratitude in Your Way
Whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or spending the day alone, Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to connect with gratitude. If you’re with family or friends, let the spirit of thankfulness shine through your interactions. Celebrate the heartness of your relationships and the joy of being together.
If you find yourself alone, know that gratitude is always accessible within you. Take a moment to connect to your heart and reflect on the blessings in your life, no matter how small they may seem. Even in solitude, you can feel the profound resonance of Godness and gratitude alive in your heart.
A Thanksgiving Reflection
Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and embrace the fulfillment of life. It’s a time to honor our connections, express our gratitude, and feel the joy of being alive. Let’s make this holiday not just about giving thanks, but about truly feeling it in our hearts and sharing it with those around us.
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Sherryism: “Be Full of Thanks for Your Self and Your Life!”
Happiest Thanksgiving to You All!