Ask any grade school child and they will tell you Thanksgiving was first celebrated in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians shared a fall harvest. Some might even tell you that in 1863 President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of thanksgiving to be held each year in November, and that today in the United States, Thanksgiving is held on the fourth Thursday in November.

The very word “Thanksgiving” conjures up images of brilliant orange, crimson and purple leaves falling from trees; visiting family and friends; watching football and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, either in person or on television; and without question – food. Turkey dinners with all of the holiday trimmings; including pies and stuffing, made for generations – one particular way.

Yet, Thanksgiving Day is more than a day of fond memories, parades, football and dinners. It is a day to remind us of the blessings, treasures and wonderful family and friends in our lives. Most will spend a few moments before dinner to give thanks, but for many the true meaning of Thanksgiving ends at the dinner table.

The meaning of Thanksgiving however, should not end after a few seconds of meditation or a prayer, it has broader significance. It is a reminder to slow down and take an assessment of our lives. “Thanks” – “giving” is a call to action in both thought and deed. It is a time for us to see, really see, and appreciate the abundance in our lives. This recognition allows us to express our gratitude and prompts us to share such blessings of wealth, time and talents with others.

On Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, as you sit down to dinner, spend a few moments giving thanks and pausing to reflect on what actions you can take in the next year to fully express and experience the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Can you free-up one hour each week and share that time with someone in need? Can you increase your charitable monetary giving? The very act of giving of your time and talent acknowledges that there is abundance in your life.

Spartanburg Methodist College prays this Thanksgiving Day you experience a new perspective on the true abundance of your life!