OUR CANADIAN THANKSGIVING

Has been a national holiday on the second Monday of October since 1957. Thanksgiving was celebrated for many years in Canada prior to that but on different dates. In our history, various First Nations' tribes had celebrations for the harvest. The English explorer Martin Frobisher celebrated in 1578 in Newfoundland for a safe passage as well as Samuel de Champlain the French explorer began celebrations in Canada in 1604. Various European celebrations have coincided with Thanksgiving like festivities. Besides eating and having a long weekend, what does it really mean to the average Canadian? For me, it means a time to gather as a family and eat a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Inviting someone who may not have a home to celebrate is always on the list of added guests to the festive table. Reflecting on the harvest and all its bounty can be part of the day. Just being thankful for all the blessings in our lives brings more meaning. Missing those who can not be with us brings many long distance phone calls. What does Thanksgiving mean to you? What is the favourite part of the celebration?