True Meaning of Thanksgiving

posted by blair on 30th, 2009

It’s not about the delicious spread of food on your table or getting days off of work. It isn’t even about getting an early start on Christmas shopping with the deals on Black Friday.

No, Thanksgiving is truly about being thankful for what you do have and giving to help others reach that similar feeling of thankfulness. I was able to experience that same feeling this Thanksgiving by helping three families get their own Thanksgiving dinner, one of which was a friend of mine.

I took part in the typical, yet still helpful, ways of Thanksgiving by paying for a Thanksgiving meal for a local family with a visit through the Publix’s shopping line. I also participated in a food drive at my apartment complex, giving food towards members of the community.

Yet the best feeling or example of Thanksgiving occurred when a friend of mine (and our company) was in need of care and support (both physical and edible). We came together as a company and provided the friend with homemade treats, gift cards and presents for the person to enjoy with her family.

The look on the person’s face was priceless as they were overwhelmed by what we presented them and they were truly touched by our support, revealing a face of gratitude and belief in compassion.

My mom wanted to take part in the giving for the person so she created an elaborate Thanksgiving meal that she split in two so my friend could have a Thanksgiving meal on Thursday and my family could as well. My dad was gracious enough to drive from Orlando to our office in Leesburg to deliver the meal, something I’m very appreciative that he did for my friend and myself.

I could have had just a sandwich on Thanksgiving and not had any days off for Thanksgiving and would have still felt like I had the best holiday in years.

I’m ready to see what goodwill experiences will come my way for Christmas this year and encourage all of you to take part in helping out those who need it most this Christmas season, even if they are just within your own social circle. Give of yourself and you will experience more from the holidays.