Harvest festivals were not a new concept or a new tradition but this first 1621 “Thanksgiving” was one like many others, but the 2020 harvest celebration was unlike many others. The first Thanksgiving meal was not a one-day event, it was a multi-day feast to celebrate the end of a successful harvest. It included feasting, games, military exercises, and diplomacy. Whereas our family dinner tables have been instructed over the years to not discuss politics, religion, and other controversial issues, the first feast was about military exercises and diplomacy between the colonists and the Native peoples. These attendees had a harsh entry into the New World, including a rough winter and an epidemic of disease that swept through the colony. Which is not much different than the pandemic of disease that is facing us globally. Giving thanks is an important part of both the cultures that were present. For the English, before and after every meal there was a prayer of thanksgiving. For the Native Americans they traditionally have thanksgivings as a daily, ongoing thing. A day to remind us that this is a practice that is not reserved for once a year, but certainly is to be the center of any celebration. When the English colonists and King Massasoit gathered it was in a manner that would conclude with rejoicing together. To date, this is still an integral part of the holiday.   

Tradition is such a tricky thing to have and understand this year. We are yet again faced with making decisions that are not easy and trying to redefine or define for the first-time what things mean to you. Trying to understand and embrace the parts of your values that you hold in your core. Keeping truth in the faith that you have in what you believe. Keeping truth in seeking out new ways to make the things that you have held so dear and strongly in your heart and in your home. Gathering around tables with Zoom screens instead of holding hands in prayer. Canceling travel plans or redefining the “kid table” so that you can be socially distanced from loved ones.