ModernMusings.com

Thanksgiving is here once again and I find myself asking the modern question: Does anyone care about the meaning behind our holidays?

Of course there are many families that hold fast to tradition and honor the day by being thankful of what they have and use the day to give to those who have less than them. And then there are the many others that lose touch with the holiday’s meaning.

I want to discuss those who have lost touch with meaning.
Some have focused their efforts on the shallow aspect of the holiday, the meal. They are the ones that strive for the perfect meal while barking orders and stressing themselves out, usually left to feel unappreciated, tired and unfulfilled.

Some have experienced family troubles that seem to surface especially during the holidays and view the holiday as an ordeal to get through. The result is often the same as the perfectionists. They end the day stressed, unappreciated, and unfulfilled.

Some have given up all together participating in the meaning of life and view the holiday as a joke and eat pizza. They may not feel the stress but will feel unappreciated and unfulfilled.

Some have been caught up by the inequalities of the American conquerer and the Native Americans they can not see the first thanksgiving for the buffalo. They feel stress due to inequality, unappreciated and unfulfilled.

What is the meaning of Thanksgiving and how does one participate in that meaning?

Your expectations of the holiday should be evaluated before answering this question.

Here are my expectations…

I expect to produce a meal that will nourish my family and friends with the love and appreciation I put into it’s creation.

I expect my friends and family to partake of the meal as a gift, no need for the thank you card.

I expect my family and friends to participate by coming.

I expect that some of them will express themselves and all of who they are will come through.

I expect to remember why they are my family and friends.

I expect to honor the Native American’s generosity to strangers.

I expect to see and hear the meaning of the holiday commercialized within a capitalist society.

I expect to create and honor traditions within that commercialization.

I expect to realize the graces and blessings I have been honored to receive.

I expect any one reading this to smile and search for meaning in their lives.

I expect for some to think it is bullsh*t, I am a Taurus you know.

If we take the time out to make the holidays symbolize meaning in our personal lives we will be left…Relaxed and Rejuvinated…Appreciated and Proud…Fulfilled and Enlightened.