What to Look Forward To: Thanksgiving 2011

By Manny Loke


Do you have a lot to be thankful for? In the latter part of this year, you will have to ask this question again. Before Thanksgiving 2011, you should plan ahead to make this year a more memorable year. People have often neglected the meaning of Thanksgiving, but this year, you should reflect on it more.

Thanksgiving is not just another holiday that the whole country celebrates. Your kids need to understand the essence of this holiday and why it is important. It's a tradition that they can also pass on to their own kids someday.

How to Make Thanksgiving 2011 Meaningful?

1. Take Time to Explain

Thanksgiving revolves around the harvest festival. Many countries understand the joy of the harvest, in the traditional sense. People gathered in the fields with food and wine to thank the gods for a plentiful bounty. While Thanksgiving is regarded as a pagan holiday, many religions have incorporated the thought behind it in their doctrines. Thanksgiving is also celebrated in the context of family togetherness.

The significance of the turkey, the colors and the seasonal vegetables should also be mentioned. The wild turkey is a native bird that has become the symbol of Thanksgiving. When people celebrated in the past, there's always a bird on the table to represent the blessings of nature.

2. Charity Donations

As a family, you should go to a charitable organization and make a donation. Make your own story of the Thanksgiving holiday more real by donating to a worthwhile charity. Right now, so many people are relying on social service and are probably starving. Donating will drive home the message of Thanksgiving to your kids. To be truly grateful for what you have, you can help those who may have less than your family in terms of income. You can also donate anything that others will still find useful.

3. The Dinner

Get your whole family involved in planning the Thanksgiving dinner. Include vegetable dishes. Of course there has to be a turkey, but if you cannot afford one, then any other bird should do. It's the symbolism that matters. Cook for more people. You can pack some of the dishes in containers for sharing with your neighbours.




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