Thanksgiving is rooted in stories of unity and resilience that emerged during challenging times. Two significant events mark this oldest holiday in America, both illustrating the power of gratitude in overcoming division. The first story, set in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621, highlights the collaboration between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people. After a brutal winter that resulted in the deaths of nearly half the Pilgrims, the Wampanoag offered their knowledge, teaching the settlers essential skills such as corn cultivation, maple tapping, and local fishing. This act of generosity laid the foundation for a brief yet impactful alliance, emphasizing the importance of welcoming the stranger and fostering peaceful coexistence.
The second story unfolds almost 250 years later during a period of immense strife. In 1863, amidst the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared a National Day of Thanksgiving. Rather than celebrating military victories or national pride, Lincoln urged Americans to seek unity through gratitude. He encouraged the nation to recognize shared blessings, even as it faced internal conflict and division. Lincoln’s message served as a reminder that gratitude can heal wounds caused by political and social discord.
As American society grapples with polarization and conflict today, these historical narratives offer valuable insights. Current political disagreements over immigration and government roles often create rifts within families and communities. The public discourse sometimes resembles a battlefield, marked by threats of violence and deep-seated animosity. Furthermore, many individuals are facing real hardship, including job losses and food insecurity, which only intensifies the societal divide.
In light of these challenges, the temptation might be to withdraw into familiar circles, giving thanks solely with those who share similar beliefs. Yet, the lessons from Plymouth and Lincoln suggest a different approach. Gratitude can be a unifying force, not by ignoring our differences, but by acknowledging shared blessings that transcend them.
Both the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, despite their cultural disparities, found common ground in their appreciation for the harvest. Similarly, Lincoln, in a nation torn apart by war, invited Americans to recognize the blessings of “fruitful fields and healthful skies.” This call to unity through shared gratitude encourages us to look beyond our divisions.
Now more than ever, we can draw inspiration from these stories. They remind us that the spirit of Thanksgiving is not about conquest or superiority, but rather about recognizing our interconnectedness and reliance on one another. As we celebrate this holiday, let us embrace Lincoln’s call to find unity in our collective blessings.
Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, the ninth Archbishop of Chicago, serves on the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Committee on Migration and emphasizes the importance of recognizing our shared humanity. He encourages us to acknowledge the reasons for gratitude that exist despite our differences.
In this season of Thanksgiving, let us reflect on the enduring spirit of unity and the transformative power of gratitude. Embracing this perspective may help us navigate our current divisions, fostering connections that can lead to a more harmonious society.