Carol Anne Costa: Giving Thanks
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Like so many traditions, the day Americans set aside to give thanks has morphed into a mere resemblance to its original intent, or has it; I ask that not to be critical, I ask to look deeper, as we are an ever evolving nation. The more I ponder the day, the more I realize it is the one day that that has truly retained the core of its purpose. The beginnings of the American Thanksgiving had roots in the Puritan customs and were eventually combined with the New England tradition of harvest festivals usually held in the Autumn. It was the opportunity to show gratitude for the bounty, as well as give thanks to God for his divine Providence. Modern Thanksgivings have become more about food, football and brutal political dinner table conversations, but even today at the core it still remains about gratitude.
I happened upon a young man this week he was probably no more than 10, he appeared deep in thought, and I engaged him conversation about his consternation, he told me he was thinking about what he would be saying at the Thanksgiving table, as his family always asks everyone to share (out loud), what they are grateful for this year. He indicated he had a couple of things, but wanted to be sure to present them ...out loud. I so adored the fact that he was giving his answers and presentation such obvious deliberation. #whatIamgratefulfor!
Giving Back
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTThe Thanksgiving holiday so beautifully reveals the the true charitable and compassionate nature of the American public. Although the holiday has evolved from its Puritan roots, today, our children still learn and celebrate the stories of Pilgrims, Puritans and Wampanoags. So as the littles ones put on their Pilgrim hats and study the Mayflower and folks hit the grocery store gathering the final ingredients for the family feast, we must not lose sight that millions of our fellow Americans are suffering and millions more Americans respond to the call to help.
“Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.” Buddah While the snow and sleet are building and the temperatures are falling on this Thanksgiving eve, there are people all around us who are homeless, sick, hungry, dying, suicidal, alone and deeply depressed. For some, Thanksgiving day will be the day when a loved will pass away, or carry a terrible medical diagnosis to the table, or just another day when a family will struggle to pay the rent, mortgage, or for the food on the table. That is why I am always so uplifted when many people I know deploy to soup kitchens, hospitals, nursing homes, and donate time, talent, and treasure directly to folks in need. That is indeed what makes the day so special. Thanksgiving Day wedged between the halloween frenzy and the commercial circus that Christmas has quietly and effectively held its own, as it mobilizes people, faith and civic organizations represents the real giving during the season.
For Your Consideration
The Thanksgiving holiday presents the chance to count our blessings, silver linings, consider and serve others as the swirling holiday season begins in earnest. I think Linus Van Pelt said it best, “In the year 1621, the Pilgrims held their first Thanksgiving feast. They invited the great Indian chief Massasoit, who brought ninety of his brave Indians and a great abundance of food. Governor William Bradford and Captain Miles Standish were honored guests. Elder William Brewster, who was a minister, said a prayer that went something like this: 'We thank God for our homes and our food and our safety in a new land. We thank God for the opportunity to create a new world for freedom and justice.”
If you have the chance to celebrate and gather with friends and family today, don’t forget to channel your Linus and harken back and remember that we live in a country founded in hard work, charity, respect for the earth, and the principles of justice, and for that we all must be grateful.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Carol Costa is a public relations and community outreach specialist; she has experience in both the public and private sectors. She is the Chairwoman of the Scituate Democratic Town Committee and has extensive community affairs and public relations experience. She previously served in the Rhode Island Judiciary for nearly 17 years. Carol also enjoyed a successful development stint at the Diocese of Providence as Associate Director for Catholic Education and is currently a public housing manager. Her work has been published in several local outlets including GoLocal, Valley Breeze, The Rhode Island Catholic, and Currents Magazine.
Related Slideshow: Great Thanksgiving Events for the Family
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