I propose that Thanksgiving is the ultimate holy day. It is holy because is wholly. It is acknowledged wholly, by all Americans universally. No matter your family origin, culture, political persuasion, religion, financial status. A vast majority of Americans participate.

The oneness demonstrated by breaking bread for a few hours with family and friends is unique by virtue of its inclusiveness. The origin of the holiday is exceptional. It represents both escape from religious persecution, and being warmly welcomed by the residents who resided on a new land.

Although the day has morphed into a commercialized reason to go shopping, that too should be celebrated. When we patronize a store we initiate a long domino effect of economic benefits that support many others. Thanksgiving is all about thanks and giving.

Ask Not

One of the most noteworthy quotes in American history was “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country?”

These immortal words were said during the inaugural address of John F Kennedy. Kennedy was the quintessential privileged white male from a wealthy, socialite family, Yet he preferred to inspire the act of giving at his inauguration. His life was very brief, tragically passing away at 46, but rather than portray a life of entitlement, indulgence and selfishness, he left this world with a teaching of gratitude and to give back.

That which perpetuates life

Ultimately it is not what we take from this world, it is is our contribution that perpetuates life. With that thought in mind, I recently heard an amazing analogy that beautifully illustrates this.

The Analogy

There are two bodies of water that lie within Israel. They are the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. They are both fed by the same source, the Jordan River, but that’s where the similarity ends. The Galilee is teaming with life. The Dead Sea is not.

The Sea of Galilee

The difference

The difference is subtle but significant. The Sea of Galilee takes water in at one end and gives water out at the other.

The Dead Sea takes water in but does not give.

The Dead Sea

Biology

Another great example of “that perpetuates life” is biology. The body is not independent. We take in and we give out, air, water, nourishment, information, and love just to name a few. If one of our organs is unable to function normally by giving and taking the system quickly dies.

They couldn’t be more different

The Europeans and the Native Americans had nothing in common, yet both were able to form a peaceful coexistence that proved beneficial to both and is celebrated to this day. Cultures may be different but the lifeblood of all, are their ability to give and take. What would our world be like if people never learned to trade, share, learn and grow together.  Happy Holidays