Most children growing up in the United States learn something about Thanksgiving, and perhaps hear about Massasoit, the Native American leader who joined with the European settlers to celebrate their successful crop.
Most Americans learn much less about the extent to which the survival of the first settlers was made possible by the native people nor of the subsequent betrayal of those people. An excellent book on the topic is Jill Lepore’s The Name of War: King Philip’s War and the Origins of American Identity.
Today, it is more critical than ever for people to come together to share their appreciation for the gift of life. To help you engage in the meaning of such thanks giving, we share both a Thanksgiving blessing and Native American recipes for celebration of the day.
Thanksgiving Blessing
(Adapted from a Native American prayer.)
Before me, thankful.
Behind me, thankful.
Below me, thankful.
Above me, thankful.
Around me, thankful.
Within me, thankful.
Native American recipes for Thanksgiving
Sobaheg (turkey stew) – a Wampanoag recipe
Roast corn soup and Succotash – Seneca recipes
Enjoy these recipes, and check for more here on Wednesday.
(Note: Because of Thanksgiving, our second post of the week will be a day earlier than our usual practice.)
Kathie Malley-Morrison, Professor of Psychology
Pat Daniel, Managing Editor of Engaging Peace