There are five signs of Thanksgiving that really invoke gratitude, besides being a time for family, food, and reflection on all we’re grateful for. But Thanksgiving isn’t just about stuffing ourselves with turkey and taking a nap afterward (though that’s a great part of it!). The holiday is filled with meaningful symbols that remind us of gratitude, togetherness, and the simple joys in life.
Thanksgiving is sometimes a rough holiday for me personally. My mother passed away Thanksgiving night in 1997. My little brother, who died in Jan. 2017, his birthday is in mid-November. We celebrated Thanksgiving together every year for nearly 20 years in honor of our mother, until he passed away. However, I am so very thankful for the mother who raised me and for the 48 years I had with my brother. They are both forever missed!
So, what are the five signs of Thanksgiving that invoke gratitude? Let’s explore these classic symbols that are more than just decorations. They’re reminders of the season’s spirit!
Five Signs of Thanksgiving That Inspire True Gratitude
For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving; 5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. 1 Timothy 4:4-5
1. Stuffed Turkey: The Centerpiece of Thanksgiving
It’s hard to imagine Thanksgiving without a big, juicy stuffed turkey at the center of the table. The stuffed turkey is a beloved tradition that brings everyone together. The smell of a roasting turkey wafting through the house is enough to make anyone feel grateful!
But beyond being a delicious meal, the turkey represents abundance and hospitality. Preparing a turkey is a labor of love. It’s about feeding the people you care about, making them feel welcome and cherished. This simple act of cooking and sharing a meal is one of the purest forms of gratitude.
So, the next time you’re carving that bird, take a moment to appreciate the tradition. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the effort, the love, and the joy of gathering together.
2. The Cornucopia: A Symbol of Abundance
The cornucopia, also known as the “horn of plenty,” is one of the most recognizable symbols of Thanksgiving. Often filled with fruits, vegetables, and grains, it symbolizes the harvest season’s bounty.
The cornucopia has roots in ancient times, where it represented abundance and nourishment. Today, it reminds us to be grateful for what we have. It’s easy to overlook the little blessings in our lives, especially when we’re focused on what we don’t have. The cornucopia invites us to shift our focus to the good things—both big and small—that we already possess.
You can bring this symbol into your home by creating a cornucopia centerpiece. Fill it with apples, pumpkins, and colorful leaves to add a festive touch to your Thanksgiving table. As you do, take a moment to reflect on all the blessings you’ve harvested in your own life.
3. Pilgrims: One of the Earliest Signs of Thanksgiving-The Spirit of Perseverance and Gratitude
No discussion of Thanksgiving is complete without mentioning the pilgrims. They are the original Thanksgiving guests who, despite facing countless hardships, celebrated their first harvest with gratitude. The story of the pilgrims is a powerful reminder that gratitude isn’t just for the good times; it’s especially important during challenging moments.
The pilgrims faced a harsh winter, lack of food, and uncertainty in a new land. Yet, they still found reasons to be thankful. This sign of Thanksgiving teaches us to cultivate gratitude, no matter the circumstances. If the pilgrims could find reasons to give thanks in difficult times, we certainly can, too.
So, when you see those little pilgrim figurines or decorations, let them remind you of the strength that comes with a thankful heart. It’s not always easy to be grateful, but it’s always worth it.
4. Colorful Leaves: The Prettiest Sign of Thanksgiving and Nature’s Reminder of Change and Beauty
Fall leaves are another sign of Thanksgiving that fills us with gratitude. There’s something magical about the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that blanket the ground this time of year. These colorful leaves are more than just pretty decorations; they remind us of the beauty of change.
The leaves change colors, fall to the ground, and make way for new growth. It’s a natural cycle that reflects our own lives. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the past year—what we’ve achieved, what we’ve lost, and what we’re grateful for.
Take a walk outside and soak in the colors of the season. Collect a few leaves and place them on your Thanksgiving table as a simple, natural decoration. As you do, think about how change can be beautiful, even when it’s hard. This sign of Thanksgiving reminds us to be thankful for the present moment.
5. Cranberries and Cranberry Sauce: A Sweet Traditional Sign of Thanksgiving
What would Thanksgiving dinner be without that tangy, sweet cranberry sauce on the table? Cranberries are one of the classic signs of Thanksgiving. These little red berries were a staple for Native Americans and the early settlers, making them a symbol of tradition and history.
Cranberry sauce isn’t just a side dish—it’s a sign of Thanksgiving’s rich history and the blending of cultures. It reminds us of the importance of sharing, collaboration, and coming together to create something delicious. Plus, cranberries have a tartness that balances out the rich flavors of Thanksgiving dishes, just like how gratitude can bring balance to our lives.
As you spoon that cranberry sauce onto your plate, take a moment to appreciate the tradition behind it. Whether you prefer homemade or the canned version (with those iconic ridges), it’s a reminder of the holiday’s rich culinary history.
Bringing Together These Five Signs of Thanksgiving
These five signs of Thanksgiving—stuffed turkey, cornucopia, pilgrims, colorful leaves, and cranberries—are more than just decorations or dishes. They’re powerful reminders of the spirit of Thanksgiving.
This holiday season, as you gather around the table, take a moment to reflect on these symbols. The turkey symbolizes abundance, the cornucopia represents the blessings we harvest, the pilgrims inspire us to be grateful in tough times, colorful leaves remind us to embrace change, and cranberries celebrate the joy of sharing traditions.
Thanksgiving isn’t just about a single day of feasting. It’s about embracing gratitude every day, appreciating the little things, and cherishing the people who make life special. So, this year, let these signs of Thanksgiving inspire you to be more thankful, not just on the holiday but all year round.
Happy Thanksgiving, and may your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and gratitude!
