Let us in education always call the attention of children to the hosts of men and women who are hidden from the light of fame, so kindling a love of humanity….a reverent consciousness of its dignity and worth. ~ Maria Montessori, To Educate the Human Potential
I have to admit, Thanksgiving is not one of my favorite holidays. I think it all comes down to a lot of cooking and dishes for what seems like a very short meal. I’m not a big fan of turkey, either. Or, dare I say it, pumpkin pie. And I’d rather decorate my house with stockings and mistletoe than pilgrims and turkeys. I do, however, appreciate the theme of Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving, when you get down to it, is not about a feast or football or the day-after-Thanksgiving holiday sales rush. Remember the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special? (Charles M. Schulz, 1973) All the kids invite themselves over to Charlie Brown’s house for dinner. They arrive expecting the traditional feast and are outraged to find themselves served toast, popcorn, pretzels, and jelly beans. “What blockhead cooked all this?” shouted Peppermint Patty. Wouldn't she have been surprised to find out it has all been prepared by Snoopy – the dog!? Marcie tries to explain: “Thanksgiving is more than eating…we should just be thankful for being together.”
