Column 482       November 22, 2024Freedom from Want

Survival depends on preparation. Throughout time, and depending on the latitudes and climates where they lived, during the spring and summer humans worked at storing vital supplies for the winter months. In the far north and far south, setting aside wood for heat was as important as food. Having proper shelters were of paramount importance. When preparations were sufficient, it was a time for celebrating. These celebrations were the  harvest festivals of their time.

Today, with modern agriculture and the mass transportation of food stuffs from all corners of the globe, the actual reason for Thanksgiving has shifted from celebrating a good harvest in preparation of winter, to giving thanks for our many blessings we enjoy throughout the year. With so many people no longer associated with agriculture, the critical importance of a good harvest is no longer a concern.

So, even if it’s not a good harvest that interests you, what are you thankful for this fall?

In recent times there’s been a drift away from giving thanks to a higher being. It’s not by God’s grace we got a good crop, but rather we made it happen “as usual.” But even this approach still leaves many things to be thankful for.

Having a holiday that brings family and friends together in celebration is a time to rejoice. A cozy home, crackling fire, hot cider, renewed companionship, laughter, fond remembrances of those who have past are all hallmarks of a grand Thanksgiving celebration.

Today’s celebration is primarily centered around a banquet of good food, drinks, and deserts: Roast turkey, turkey dressing, mashed potatoes with turkey gravy, southern candied sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, apple cider, apple pie, pecan pie, and pumpkin pie often grace the Thanksgiving table. The traditional meal is a lot of work but it follows Thanksgiving traditions that go back many generations. And often this is one day a year that provides a reverent undertone where the majority tends to thank God for His many blessings.

Thanksgiving is an opportunity for people show thanks for their various stages in life. For instance, being in school, having a successful and terrific place to work with options to grow, comfortable homes, a new special personal relationships, new members to the family, our health and the healthcare system, the special accomplishments in the past year, and our opportunities that lie ahead.

For sure this year many will give special thanks to a return to normalcy from the four-years of wokeness that had led our nation down paths of debauchery. Many may not realize this is a blessing, but hopefully in time they too will realize that our country’s Constitutional foundation is what has made us a great nation. The prospects of a smaller, more frugal government that emphasizes health, peace, with more freedom and common goals will be a blessing indeed.

There is no question that no matter our faith or political beliefs, at some point in our Thanksgiving celebration we should ask for every day to be filled with God’s blessings, memorable moments, good health, and happiness.

Happy Thanksgiving.1

To your health.

Ted Slanker

Ted Slanker has been reporting on the fundamentals of nutritional research in publications, television and radio appearances, and at conferences since 1999. He condenses complex studies into the basics required for health and well-being. His eBook, The Real Diet of Man, is available online.

For additional reading:

1. How To Thaw A Turkey In Time For Thanksgiving by Sheena Chihak, RD and Sarah Martens from Better Homes and Gardens