Usually we lament the influence of American culture on what we see as traditional Irish ways. Fast food, MacMansion, trashy soaps and cosmetic surgery are all imports we could have done without,
although we have plenty of vices of our own.
But Thanksgiving is one American tradition which I like and which we could do well to adopt.
Looked at from this side of the Atlantic, it seems to be a holiday (and I really hate that word) which has avoided being tarnished by commercialism, where the emphasis is still on families getting together and giving thanks for what is good.
It's hard sometimes, when the recession continues to bring so much misery to so many Irish people, to remember that there are still good things in life.
I know, however, that I have reason to be thankful.
I have my family and friends who love me and are loved in return.
I have a roof over my head, food on my table, a job and good health.
I live in a beautiful country and enjoy wealth and freedom which many can only dream of.
Life may not be perfect but most of the time it's good and for that I am thankful.
Yes, we do have much to be thankful for.
ReplyDeleteI tend to see New Year (Hogmanay) as a 'thankful' time. Surrounded by friends and family (usually a party of around 70 folk in this house) and being overwhelmed by such a strong sense of gratefulness as the bells sound midnight and ring us all into a new year. There's always a pang as you look back to what has gone past - but this swelling excitement as you look forward - and what's even better - an all-consuming sense of love for the present and those who are sharing it with you.
All right soppy stuff - but it's my favourite time of year.
I totally agree, I love the idea of a holiday to celebrate being grateful. At the end of the day family is where this brings you....a lovely post:~)
ReplyDeleteThere is so much doom & gloom in Ireland these days that I think it would do us good to stop complaining
ReplyDeleteand focus on what's good in our lives. Not saying that there aren't problems and hardships but constantly
looking at the bad can only get one down.
Mairead, I am thankful for you...and everyone else who leads me to one epiphany or another. I had not looked at Thanksgiving as one of our few 'non-commercial' holidays. Easter comes to mind, but like Christmas, it has been stripped of much meaningful content by hijackers intent on eliminating any religious reference. Heaven forbid....
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