Gratitude Holidays 

Thankfulness or gratitude is a value that is universally embraced by humans, transcending cultural and belief boundaries. Throughout history, individuals have expressed their gratitude in various ways, influenced by their unique contexts and worldviews. In this blog post, we will delve into the diverse manifestations of thankfulness across different cultures and beliefs, seeking inspiration to incorporate gratitude into our own lives. 

One of the most common methods of expressing thankfulness is through verbal communication, such as saying “thank you” or its equivalent in different languages. However, it is important to note that not all cultures employ verbal expressions of gratitude in the same manner or with the same frequency. According to Jonathan Tudge, a professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, who researched gratitude development in children across seven countries, Americans tend to utilize expressions of thanks more frequently. Yet, other cultures may possess a deeper comprehension of gratitude. For instance, in certain cultures like China and South Korea, uttering the words “thank you” may connote a sense of distance or formality between the giver and the recipient, or even imply an obligation or indebtedness. Instead, these cultures may prefer to demonstrate gratitude through actions, such as reciprocating with something meaningful to the giver or fostering long-term relationships. 

Expressing gratitude can take various forms, one of which involves recognizing the source of our blessings, be it God, nature, or fate. Many religious and spiritual traditions have customs and rituals that foster a sense of gratitude towards a higher power or a cosmic order. In the Islamic faith, for example, Muslims are taught to utter “alhamdulillah,” meaning “all praise is due to God,” in every situation they encounter, regardless of whether it is favorable or not. Christians are encouraged to give thanks in all circumstances, as stated in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Judaism encourages its followers to recite blessings before and after meals, as well as on various occasions, as a way of expressing gratitude to God for His blessings. Buddhists practice gratitude towards their teachers, parents, and benefactors, as well as towards the Buddha, the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the community). 

A third way to express gratitude is by celebrating it with others, particularly with family and friends. Many cultures have festivals and holidays that commemorate historical events or harvest seasons with thankfulness. Thanksgiving in the United States is a well-known example, which originated from the Pilgrims’ gathering with the Native Americans in 1621 to celebrate their survival and cooperation. Today, Thanksgiving is a national holiday that brings families together to enjoy a meal and express gratitude for their blessings. Other examples of gratitude celebrations around the world include Erntedankfest in Germany, Chuseok in Korea, Moon Festival in China, Pongal in India, and Sukkot in Israel. These events provide opportunities for people to come together, appreciate their good fortune, and give thanks in a communal setting. 

Erntedankfest in Germany

Erntedankfest, also known as Harvest Thanksgiving Festival, is a religious celebration observed in Germany on the first Sunday of October. This special occasion is dedicated to expressing gratitude to God for the bountiful harvest and sharing the abundance with the local community. People adorn their churches, homes, and streets with an array of fruits, vegetables, grains, flowers, and other symbols that represent abundance. Additionally, they engage in parades, music, dances, and feasts that showcase traditional delicacies like roast goose, potato dumplings, sauerkraut, and apple pie. Erntedankfest serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the blessings of nature and the tireless efforts of farmers. 

Chuseok in Korea

Chuseok, also known as Autumn Eve, is a significant holiday in Korea that occurs on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, typically falling in September or October. It is a time to show respect to our ancestors and celebrate the bountiful harvest alongside our loved ones. During this occasion, people make trips to their ancestral hometowns, pay homage to the gravesites, and perform ancestral rituals, which involve presenting food, beverages, and incense. Additionally, they partake in various enjoyable activities such as participating in traditional games, singing melodies, dancing, and adorning themselves in customary attire. One cannot overlook the most iconic Chuseok delicacy – songpyeon, a delectable half-moon-shaped rice cake filled with either sweet or savory ingredients. Chuseok serves as a reminder to appreciate our heritage and the connections we have with others. 

Moon Festival in China

The Moon Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a traditional Chinese celebration that takes place on the 15th day of the 8th month in the lunar calendar, aligning with a full moon. This special occasion is a time to commemorate the bountiful harvest, reunite with loved ones, and honor the legend of Chang’e, the moon goddess. During this festival, people gather together to appreciate the beauty of the moon, exchange thoughtful gifts, illuminate lanterns, and indulge in mooncakes. Mooncakes are circular pastries that come with a variety of delicious fillings like lotus seed paste, red bean paste, nuts, or even savory egg yolk. The Moon Festival carries significant symbolism, representing harmony, prosperity, and gratitude for the moon’s profound influence on our lives. 

Pongal in India

Pongal is a festival that spans four days and signifies the conclusion of the winter solstice as well as the commencement of the harvest season in India. Celebrated predominantly in Tamil Nadu, this festival holds significance for people of various religions and regions. The term “pongal” translates to “boiling over” or “spilling over”, symbolizing abundance and happiness. Each day of the festival carries its own importance and customs. The initial day is dedicated to honoring the sun god Surya, while the second day focuses on venerating cattle as symbols of wealth and fertility. On the third day, families and friends are honored, and on the fourth day, birds are revered as bearers of good fortune. The quintessential dish of Pongal is a delectable rice pudding prepared with milk, sugar, cardamom, raisins, and cashews. Pongal serves as an expression of gratitude for the sun’s energy and the earth’s plentiful resources. 

Sukkot in Israel

Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles, is an important Jewish festival that honors the 40 years when the Israelites roamed the desert after fleeing from slavery in Egypt. This significant celebration takes place over seven days, typically in late September or early October. During Sukkot, individuals construct temporary dwellings called sukkahs, adorning them with an array of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and branches. These makeshift shelters serve as a reminder of how God protected their ancestors throughout their journey in the wilderness. 

Within these sukkahs, people partake in various activities such as eating meals, sleeping, praying, and hosting guests. By doing so, they pay homage to the divine guidance and provision that their forefathers received during their time in the desert. Additionally, there is a special ritual known as lulav and etrog, where participants wave a palm branch and a citrus fruit in six different directions. This act symbolizes gratitude towards God for his presence in every aspect of life. 

Overall, Sukkot represents a time of immense gratitude for God’s watchful guidance and abundant blessings bestowed upon the Jewish community throughout their history. 

Throughout history, numerous cultures and beliefs have demonstrated thankfulness in various ways. These practices illustrate that gratitude extends beyond mere emotions or verbal expressions; it becomes a way of life that enhances our connections, spirituality, and overall well-being. As we near the conclusion of this year, it is essential to contemplate how we can incorporate thankfulness into our own lives. To assist with this, here are a few recommendations: 

Here are the rephrased paragraphs: 

• Start a gratitude journal and jot down three things you appreciate each day. 
• Show your appreciation to someone who has made a positive impact on your life or brightened your day. You can express it verbally, write a heartfelt note, send a thoughtful message, or even give a small token of gratitude. 
• Embrace mindfulness by being fully present in the moment and acknowledging the beauty and goodness that surrounds you. 
• Get involved in a cause that resonates with you and volunteer your time and efforts to make a difference in your community and help those who are in need. 
• Engage in prayer or meditation to connect with your inner self and tap into a higher power. 

Thank you for reading this blog post. I hope it has inspired you to think about what you are thankful for in your life.  

Happy Thanksgiving 2023!