Emphasizing Gratitude in America
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s worth pondering whether America should focus more on the civic virtue of gratitude.
Now, we’re not talking about personal thanks—most people likely appreciate family, friends, and the privileges of living in this country. But do we express that gratitude publicly enough? Do our leaders regularly celebrate the nation’s greatness? Are educational institutions instilling in young people a sense of appreciation for being American?
There are concerning signs. For example, a recent poll indicated that a significant number of college students view socialism more favorably than capitalism. While capitalism does have its flaws, and the struggles young people face with student debt and expensive housing are real, are we losing sight of how this free enterprise system has lifted many from poverty and enabled families to improve their lives?
In school, we often learned about the first Thanksgiving—how the Pilgrims overcame famine and showed their gratitude through a feast with the Native Americans. Yet today, many schools might downplay that narrative, or even celebrate a more generic harvest festival.
It would be fascinating to know how often kids say, “We learned to appreciate our country at school.” If you look at American history courses in universities, many descriptions include terms like “exploitation” and “oppression,” but you probably won’t find many that highlight “the American miracle” or “achievements of the American spirit.”
It’s important to recognize that while the U.S. certainly has its shortcomings, it is also a nation that offers a lot to be thankful for.
We owe it to the younger generation to help them appreciate their nation’s history, without sugarcoating past mistakes. Failing to do this could lead to cultural decline.
In political discussions, it’s easy to focus on domestic issues—especially with so many Americans struggling to make ends meet. However, let’s not forget to acknowledge the blessings our nation provides. The U.S. has one of the strongest economies globally, and it remains a land of opportunity where many around the world aspire to live.
Recently, Senator John Fetterman expressed his gratitude for life and country during an interview. When asked about his future, he simply said he aimed to celebrate Thanksgiving. It was a refreshing acknowledgement.
Historically, leaders like George Washington encouraged gratitude. In his 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation, he urged Americans to recognize the blessings of God and the freedoms gained through peaceful government. Similarly, during the Civil War in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln reminded the nation to appreciate fertile lands and resources, calling for collective gratitude.
The tradition of national gratitude runs deeply in the American spirit. It’s noteworthy that the U.S. was among the first to establish an annual Thanksgiving celebration, which we can take pride in.
As Americans face increasingly partisan divisions, perhaps fostering a collective sense of gratitude could be the initial step toward healing. The Bible advises, “Be thankful in everything,” which is sound guidance. Sharing gratitude, much like sharing a meal, has the potential to unite people.
