Thanksgiving’s over, and instead of a typical blog on “what I’m thankful for,” I researched the REAL Thanksgiving story. Was it really the simple hug-it-out tale we grew up with? YIKES. This isn’t your teacher’s sanitized Thanksgiving tale. I’m not trying to ruin anyone’s leftovers, but the truth can still teach powerful lessons.
Yes, there was a Squanto who taught the Pilgrims about agriculture and fishing and negotiated a peace treaty between his tribe and the Pilgrim settlers. Squanto actually learned English because he had been a captured slave in England. Other Native Americans were captured as slaves by the settlers, or killed, and had their lands taken. In fact, some early “Thanksgiving” celebrations were held as victory parties for conquering the local tribes. Other feasts were actually the result of the local tribes bringing food to the Pilgrims, out of charity. Further, the spread of smallpox devastated many Natives and Pilgrims, as well.
The Pilgrims themselves weren’t viewed favorably or heroically by our British kin, but rather as religious fundamentalists, outcasts, and fugitives! These facts make me shocked, shameful and sad.
It’s disappointing to find out stories and traditions we celebrate aren’t as “Hallmark” in origin as we imagined. Is it wrong to celebrate Thanksgiving in modern day culture? No, because nowadays it’s recognized as a day to bring families together, celebrate our blessings, and enjoy holiday traditions. Yet, as Christians, we can be culturally sensitive to those who don’t view this holiday through the same historical perspective. Are there lessons to be learned, in spite of this version?
One lesson is acts of charity. The local Native Americans helped the Pilgrims by showing them how to survive and shared their food. Sometimes it’s risky to be charitable to others, and sometimes our charity isn’t appreciated, although not with such disastrous consequences. I remember I assisted an older woman who had apparently taken a stumble, her cheek cut and bloody. “Are you ok, can I help you?” I asked with concern. Instead, this woman yelled, “Go away! Leave me alone!” I wasn’t thinking charitable thoughts at that moment. In spite of her rejection, I still returned to the building and asked for someone to bring her some band aids and assist her to her car. During this season, how can we be more charitable toward our family, our friends, and even strangers? Are there risks we must overcome? Rejection?
Secondly, the holidays encourage us to embrace diversity. The Native Americans and Pilgrims had many cultural differences, including language, customs, clothing, food, and religious beliefs. However, those were set aside, in order to be friendly. What “cultural clashes” do you experience with your own family and friends? This year, politics has been particularly contentious! What else? There are religious, economic, educational, and racial differences. What can we embrace in order to bring unity to our families? My family is so diverse.
Some lessons are hard won. Can charity start at home? Can we embrace diversity?
Would that our news were filled with stories of charity and embracing diversity!