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Reflections on Thanksgiving Holiday

Many holidays have a universal appeal. Thanksgiving is definitely an American only holiday, a time when reflection, giving thanks and massive amounts of food all come together. Consider these thoughts on the subject by these historical figures.

Thanksgiving Day is a jewel, to set in the hearts of honest men; but be careful that you do not take the day, and leave out the gratitude. - E.P. Powell

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. - John F. Kennedy

Thanksgiving is an emotional holiday. People travel thousands of miles to be with people they only see once a year. And then discover once a year is way too often. - Johnny Carson

An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day. - Irv Kupcinet

Love wholeheartedly, be surprised, give thanks and praise then you will discover the fullness of your life. - Brother David Steindl-Rast

What we're really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving? - Erma Bombeck

The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than these who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving. - H.U. Westermayer

It must be an odd feeling to be thankful to nobody in particular. Christians in public institutions often see this odd thing happening on Thanksgiving Day. Everyone in the institution seems to be thankful 'in general.' It's very strange. It's a little like being married in general. - Cornelius Plantinga, Jr.

If I have enjoyed the hospitality of the Host of this universe, Who daily spreads a table in my sight, surely I cannot do less than acknowledge my dependence. - G. A. Johnston Ross

God is pleased with no music below so much as with the thanksgiving songs of relieved widows and supported orphans; of rejoicing, comforted, and thankful persons. - Jeremy Taylor

To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven. - Johannes A. Gaertner

I love Thanksgiving turkey. It's the only time in Los Angeles that you see natural breasts. - Arnold Schwarzenegger

If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice. - Meister Eckhart

Turkey: A large bird whose flesh, when eaten on certain religious anniversaries has the peculiar property of attesting piety and gratitude. - Ambrose Bierce

On Thanksgiving Day, all over America, families sit down to dinner at the same moment - halftime. - Author Unknown

About the Author:

Aazdak Alisimo finds Thanksgiving an inspirational time and also edits inspirational quotes updated each and every day at InspirationDaily.com.