As millions of Americans travel to celebrate the massive feast and celebrations of family and friends, it is a time to contemplate what it means to be thankful and what to be thankful for.
In light of recent conflicts and tensions in troubled times such as these, this Thanksgiving should be one of much thought and discussion. Be humbled and grounded. Contemplate, consider and deliberate when giving thanks.
Freedom of Speech and the Right to Vote:
In the most divisive and controversial election result in years, remember to think of the rights that have been exercised regardless. Be thankful for the right and freedom to disagree and debate. To take to the streets and protest for days without fear of being imprisoned or executed. Challenge the status quo and be a change for good.
Culture:
In the most ironic turn of events protesters and the remaining indigenous people of Sitting Rock fight against the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline that could threaten sacred land. The protests have been acts of activism and platform to emphasize indigenous rights and preservation. The protests have been going on for weeks and have reached a climatic and timely rise in the eve of Thanksgiving. The day dedicated to the gathering of loved ones and coveted as a time of togetherness and communion. A fight between Native Americans and Corporate Expansion, that parallels and repeats history. A history of Thanks-Taking is satirized by Jimmy Kimmel that “roasts” the traditional holiday, in the Thanksgiving play setup, with a ridiculous tofurkey costume along with gaudy and politically incorrect depictions of Native Americans. Both comedic and self-deprecating, it brings the subject to the forefront of many. Think of those who are protesting and the basic rights and lands they wish to preserve. A call to end the exploitation of a people and their culture.
Peaceful Times and a Home:
Simple, yet profound. Most, specifically refugees as they try to escape conflict and war to find solace and refuge in countries with increasing borders and restrictions. Discrimination from both the countries they have fled and hope to find safety in. Life endangering missions to reach borders and be allowed shelter. Homes in ruins and children playing in rubble under dormant bombshells. Be grateful to live in a country where streets and buildings remain intact and safety is rarely a concern.
Opportunity and Access to Education:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Nelson Mandela
Access to education is no longer a major constituent, but rather the opportunity to gain education and learning vital to improving the quality of life. Be thankful for the quality of education and the support of a society that places emphasis on educating its people. For many women and girls, education is not a focus and is withheld as a privilege for men. Young girls are married off and kept from continuing their education. The privilege of widespread education to all and the ability to further one’s learning regardless should not be forgotten.
Good Health:
A typical thanksgiving ode, but in many countries, there is a lack of focus on mental health and its awareness, one’s well-being is no longer skin deep or should be thought as such. So as many of us gather with friends and family, make sure to check in on everyone, take notice and let them know you care. Too many will be celebrating this time of togetherness with an empty chair or a missing setting. Remember those who might not be able to be with their loved ones, give them thought and although they may not have faces or names that you may recognize, think of them nonetheless.
Final Thoughts and Imparting Words:
This isn’t an excuse for self-loathing or wallowing in apologies and guilt.
In a society with division, callus, and selfishness to the problems of others, it is pertinent to come together. Pick yourself up and realize that in the midst of such realities it’s vital to look around you, breathe in the air, talk to people, anyone, be a shoulder to cry one. Nothing is too insignificant or minute. Be humbled, be shocked, and do something about it. Give thanks now and from here on.
- Have more thoughts to discuss or vocally advocate? Vice is having an open call line dedicated to those to confess or speak (646) 851-0347
- To read more about the long history of abuses against Native Americans read Sara Beyer’s Article: Don’t Let Thanksgiving Fool You, America Has Never Respected Its Indigenous People or Their Land
*Reader Discretion:
Please note that the subjects and topics of discussion are only a few that I chose, there are many more and everyone’s will be different (obviously), but I do not speak from a perspective of deep unadulterated wisdom and if it is conveyed as such I meant it as casual advice between friends, so as no offense. The use “you” is universal and is not indicative of one specific person or should be identified as such.
