What's it all about?

I don’t hear much about Pilgrims and the first Thanksgiving from my sixth-grade ancient history and language arts students these days. Nor do they mention Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 declaration setting aside a day for giving thanks.

They’re “big” kids now, so they focus more on what goes on at their house – their family traditions, favorite foods, and even a few things they hope won’t happen again. And they had no problem sharing what they’re thankful for:

“What I am most thankful for is that my family is not mad at anybody and has not gotten sick this whole year.”

“… mushy potatoes with hot gravy, warm turkey with chewy stuffing …”

“We do everything a loving family would. That’s all I ask for.”

“I want this Thanksgiving holiday to be the best one because all the other ones all the men were drinking beer and half of them were totally drunk, so that killed the fun of those Thanksgiving holidays.”

“I have one of those aunts that probably every family has. She likes to pinch my cheeks, so I always hide from her.”

“Not only am I grateful for all the yummy food, but my eight dogs are equally grateful.”

“On Thanksgiving my family and I are going to eat turkey, smashed potatoes, apple pie and tamales.”

“I am most thankful for being alive and for being here to give thanks to God.”

“The thing I’m thankful for is to have friends, go to a good school and to have an awesome history and language arts teacher.”

Smart kids, don’t you think?