Thanksgiving in Canada did not have a fixed date until the late 19th Century, when it was typically held on November 6th. After the end of World War I, Thanksgiving Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies were usually held during the same week. To avoid the two holidays from clashing with one another, in 1957, Canadian Parliament proclaimed Thanksgiving to be observed on its present date.
Thanksgiving in the United States had typically been observed on different dates throughout history; by the beginning of the 20th Century, the final Thursday in November had become the standard day of Thanksgiving in most U.S. States. It would not be until December 26th, 1941, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt, after pushing to move the date earlier to give the county an economic boost, signed a bill into law making Thanksgiving a national holiday fixed to its current date.
Today, Thanksgiving is held on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States of America, and the second Monday of October in Canada.
Every year, around the dining room table, as my family proceeds to eat a bountiful feast (usually turkey with stuffing and gravy; fresh, regional vegetables; and a decadent dessert!) Everyone recounts what they're thankful for. What will I say this year? What am I thankful for? Well, of course, I'm thankful that I'm still here; alive and well, surrounded by my loved ones - my children, my pets. I'm also thankful for being independent; for being able afford all that wonderful food (so many people can't). But, I'm thankful for the gift of writing - I love it so much, and have made many new friends through sharing this gift.
So, tell me, whether you're Canadian and celebrating Thanksgiving this weekend, or whether you're American, and celebrating in November, what are you thankful for?
1 comment:
Happy belated Thanksgiving!
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