Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the day that kicks off the holiday season.  A historically unifying event, Thanksgiving brings together Christians and non-Christians alike to celebrate America and give thanks for what we have.  

Thanksgiving also reignites the frustrations Christians experience during the holiday season.  We cannot say Merry Christmas because it is intolerant and offensive.  Instead, we are relegated to say, “Happy Holidays”, a phrase so vague and uninspiring that it leaves us feeling hallow.  But Thanksgiving brings us together.  We can say “Happy Thanksgiving” to everyone, but shouldn’t the politically correct among us be outraged this seemingly harmless expression?  Along with the creation of America came the decimation of an entire race of indigenous people.  The Native Americans certainly weren’t thankful for being told how to live.  Despite the morally questionable historical roots surrounding this popular holiday of Thanksgiving, it is nevertheless a chance to be grateful.  If for no other reason, giving thanks helps us lead a life of Christian virtue.  Our gratitude level is inversely proportional to our level of greed.  Gratefulness magnifies what we have while ingratitude magnified what we lack.      

In his book The City of God, St. Augustine explains that the philosophers have different opinions on what constitutes the good life.  Plato and his followers advocate contemplation and reflection as ways to add meaning to our lives.  Aristotle promotes the view that contemplation and action are necessary to live well.  

For college students, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to reflect.  Thoughtful reflection is good for everyone, and no human life should be without leisure.  Every professional should strive to have a mixture of productivity and rest.  One reason we need this leisure is to appreciate and be grateful for what we have been given.  Thanksgiving is a time we can celebrate relationships with family and friends.  Along with gratitude comes the call for charity.  Several years ago, my father and I went down to the Salvation Army food kitchen and served Thanksgiving dinner to the poorest among us.  I will never forget this experience.  Moreover, it is a time for us to express gratitude so we can further figure out who we are.