So the Thanksgiving weekend is now over and I have had time to reflect on all that family time and turkey. Living in South Carolina is awesome; however, it does not allow us (Rachel & I) the opportunity to see our families as often as we would like. So when Thanksgiving roles around we are always excited to visit with everyone. What a great holiday. The first Thanksgiving was in the early 1600's, throughout the years a group of pilgrims, a governor from Mass., a lady editorial writer named Sarah, four presidents (including George Washington), and finally Abraham Lincoln helped to solidify the last Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day. What I find both interesting and challenging is the official reason behind Thanksgiving Day...

I did feel this year more than ever before; Thanksgiving Day was kind of "down played". As far as the press goes, I heard more about "Black Friday" and shopping than the actually Day of Thanks. I actually heard some one say, "Thanksgiving is a speed bump to Black Friday."
(Side note: Don't you see "Black Friday" kind of ironic? We get excited about it, and yet it is the day signifying the process of going into debt. Why don't we call today "Red Monday"?)

Anyway, today I read Abe Lincoln's "Proclamation of Thanksgiving" and it got me thinking. Check out the reasons Abe gives to celebrate Thanksgiving: The day was specifically set aside to "give praise and thanksgiving to our beneficent Father", because He alone delivers and provides. Secondly, we (the people) should take care of those who are in need.

These statements challenge me greatly and I believe Thanksgiving next year will be even better if I can help it. Happy Holidays.