Hallmark holidays sometimes drive me mad. Some more than others,
and some I totally ignore like Valentine’s Day. But Thanksgiving I always
celebrate because it makes me focus my meditation on gratitude.
What is a Canadian
Thanksgiving? Wikipedia identifies a number of studies that relate it back to
English tradition tied to harvesting. But it is basically rooted in
religion. However, it also states that
in Canada it is associated with French, English, Irish, Scottish and other
immigrants who first settled into Canada. They were just so grateful they made it across the ocean alive, this giving thanks then became tradition. The hallmark thingy just became an add on.
In present day Canada, what
does it mean? I’m not sure what it means to you. But, I think for most of us it is a
time to celebrate with family for things we are grateful for in our lives. But for some it is simply an opportunity to sit down to a family dinner, some out of obligation.
Today is Thanksgiving and
I’m feeling sad. The root of my sadness is that I feel that these holidays
amplify the situation of those who are less fortunate.
I think about those that don’t have family to celebrate turkey dinner with. Especially those who don’t
have children to invite them to dinner, or don’t have the money to make the dinner
with all the fixing for their family, and or are away from family. But most of all I think of those who are simply homeless.
As you sit down with your
family to a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, remember those in need of family, love and a hot meal.
__/\__ Happy Thanksgiving
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