Thanksgiving Cease-fire

On the eve of American Thanksgiving, people all over the world have reasons to be thankful, especially those affected by the ongoing struggles in the Middle East. A few hours ago, Israeli and Hamas leaders declared a cease-fire. For now, tensions at the Gaza Strip have eased. Halfway around the globe, we Americans can witness the suffering, trials and tribulations in the Middle East, and be thankful for our freedom—which we sometimes overlook, after all we call them rights.

Tomorrow we’ll gather to remember the 1621 feast– when our ancestors joined by the Native Americans gathered at Plymouth Rock in celebration of a great harvest season, marking America’s first Thanksgiving. Looking back now, it’s a nice story about a town who invited some Native Americans over for dinner; but, when we contextualize it, we can appreciate the story that much more: while we might take for granted our readily accessible food and clean water, our ancestors and still many in the world today were/are not so fortunate. A bad harvest meant a long winter with little food. While Americans live to enjoy today, they were living to survive then. Despite the ongoing conflicts over food and land with Native Americans, both groups were all able to come together, put their differences aside and enjoy each other’s company while sharing some turkey.

Tomorrow, Israelis and Pakistanis probably won’t come together to break bread, but they can appreciate the peace after eight days of conflict. American’s, this Thanksgiving, remember all we have to be thankful for as you gather with family and friends and fill your bellies with holiday treats.

_{Cover Photo Source: Benjamin Haas}

Cassandra is a Content Manager and Developer at SJG. She earned her BA from Fontbonne University in 2011. Outside the office, she enjoys an active, healthy and well-rounded lifestyle including reading, writing, running, golfing, watching films, listening to music, taking photographs, and consuming media and social media.