by Rabbi David Woznica
It’s a good reflection on our country that we have a national holiday devoted to giving thanks. Gratitude is one of the most important and honorable qualities. There is something quite meaningful when people come together to express their appreciation for America and the blessings of their lives.
When President George Washington declared a Thanksgiving holiday in 1789 he intended it to be “a day of public thanksgiving and prayer” devoted “to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or will be.”
As envisioned by our first president, Thanksgiving is a religious holiday. Yet, it is non-denominational. It encourages people of all faiths to express thanks in the manner each finds appropriate.
Thanksgiving, then, provides an extraordinary opportunity to reach across religions. For example, we Jews don’t share religious holidays with the majority religion in America. Thanksgiving provides a splendid exception. All of us can all find much in common when it comes to thankfulness – regardless of one’s faith, or lack of faith.
As your Thanksgiving celebration unfolds, consider asking those at the table to ponder two questions:
- What is it about America that you are most grateful?
- What are you most personally grateful for?
Simply reflecting on those questions will, by itself, be an exercise in gratitude. By doing so, you will add further meaning to the holiday.
I wish you a most enjoyable and meaningful Thanksgiving
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