NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- Today is a day to take stock in who we are and to appreciate what we have instead of what we don't have and that is or faith, our families and our lives. This is Thanksgiving where families come together and rejoice -- to give thanks for what the day promises.
Thanksgiving is a national holiday dating back officially to Nov. 27, 1863, declared by President Lincoln, while the Civil War was the country's reality. Of course, the traditional Thanksgiving goes back even further to the first harvest of the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock in 1621, attended by 53 settlers and 90 Native Americans, with a feast celebrated over the course of three days.
Many families will gather around the dining table for the traditional turkey with all of the trimmings, watch a couple of NFL games on TV and perhaps get a jump on the Black Friday holiday shopping sales offerings. Others will take part or all of their day working in soup kitchens to help prepare or serve food to those less fortunate -- some of them homeless or out of work. Either of these is a matter of personal choice.
Thanksgiving is a day to pretty much do a lot or do nothing.
Some people will feast until their pants buttons can't close. Others will fast. Some people will spend most of the day driving far distances to be with loved ones. Others will go to the movies later in the day. Still others will sleep or perhaps make love.
Undoubtedly, some will drink to excess and there will likely be domestic discord. Anything and everything can occur on a day like this, the most heavily traveled holiday weekend of the year. And those who drink may take to the roads later in the day so being watchful is important.
Enjoy the holiday for what it means to you and what you give back to others; maybe a compliment to your spouse or loved one, a helping hand to someone who is hungry or just chillin' for whatever reason. God bless America and all its brethren who make this country great.