The first Thanksgiving feast, in 1621, was a relatively small, simple affair. Although it feels light-years away, significant takeaways from that celebration remain relevant today. For Pilgrims, it wasn’t so much about food as it was about gratitude and thankfulness. Although most everything has changed since then, this fundamental purpose of the holiday still resides in the hearts of millions of Americans who will come to the Thanksgiving table tomorrow.
Come One, Come All
There are some key takeaways worthy of reflection on the eve of this iconic American holiday. A mere 53 Pilgrims – mostly men since many women had died in the harsh living conditions – attended that first Thanksgiving. Their number was dwarfed by many members of the Wampanoag tribe who participated in the first harvest celebration. One of the two accounts of the initial Pilgrim Thanksgiving that exists comes from Edward Winslow, who wrote, “[M]any of the Indians coming amongst us, and amongst the rest their greatest king Massasoit, with some ninety men, whom for three days we entertained and feasted.” The Pilgrims were grateful for the assistance of the Wampanoags in teaching them how to subsist in such challenging conditions. These two different cultures rejoiced in what they had in common rather than their differences.
Key Takeaway: If the Pilgrims could celebrate with the Native Americans, surely we can sit down with family members of a different political persuasion.
Gratitude Rules and Reigns
The reason behind Thanksgiving is (thankfully) not lost on the American people. “Around two-thirds of U.S. adults say someone at their dinner typically says a prayer or blessing (65%) or says things they are thankful for (69%). And a majority of Americans (56%) say someone at their Thanksgiving dinner typically does both of these things,” according to Pew Research.
The demographic breakdown shows that 91% of white evangelical Protestants say grace, along with 88% of black Protestants and 74% of Catholics. Even the religiously unaffiliated take a moment to stop and give thanks. This includes agnostics (61%) and atheists (48%).
Key Takeaway: No matter their religious affiliation, Americans are still a grateful people.
The Rewards of Thankfulness
To the Pilgrims who lived in the 1620s, a typical 21st-century Thanksgiving Day is made manifest in unimaginable ways. Think of it: At the push of a button, food can be made piping hot. At another tap of your finger on a smartphone, the entire history of humanity becomes available. Without a doubt, the American culture is typified by instant gratification. However, the Pilgrims’ life moved at a much slower pace. They spent time reading, reflecting, and readying themselves for the many arduous tasks that lay ahead. Such introspection is largely lost in our need for quick answers, and it could be said we are all the poorer for it. An attitude of gratitude needs time to develop.
Psychologist and author Jordan Peterson once asserted, “There’s some real utility in gratitude. It’s also good protection against the dangers of victimhood and resentment.” Herein lies the key to patience and peace. A heart filled with gratitude allows no room for bitter indignation and does not permit the power of victimhood to occupy space in our hearts. A grateful heart satiates the soul.
Key Takeaway: As you gather with family and friends tomorrow, remember to allow the spirit of thankfulness to be served in large portions at your table.
