In a constantly changing world, it is comforting that the observance of Thanksgiving largely remains true to its origins of some 400 years ago.
Although the story has been mythologized and imbued with half-truths and untruths, the basics of the original Thanksgiving remain accurate: People facing hardships gathered with friends, family and strangers to recognize and celebrate their blessings. They partook of this land’s bounty and established a tradition that has endured for centuries.
Thanksgiving was first officially recognized during the Civil War, becoming a federal holiday in 1863. “The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies,” President Abraham Lincoln said in establishing the observance, providing some context that calls for reflection today.
For as Americans of all beliefs, backgrounds and circumstances give thanks, we are reminded that we are particularly blessed in Clark County.
There is, for example, a land that we love, with mountains and prairies and oceans white with foam — all easily accessible for local residents. Clark County has uncommon natural beauty, a beauty that requires constant care and must not be taken for granted. Invoking the words of Lincoln, we have, indeed, benefited from fruitful fields and healthful skies, and with proper diligence those fields and skies will remain a hallmark of the region.
Beyond those natural blessings, however, there are some human-made reasons to give thanks for living in this area:
- Growth that enhances our region. Whether it is the Columbia River waterfront in Vancouver or Washougal, development in Ridgefield, or highway construction projects, our region continues to provide amenities that benefit residents and attract visitors and newcomers. Clark County is building prosperity that will pay off well into the future.
- Voting. Whether or not the recent election yielded the desired results, we all should give thanks for the opportunity to participate in free and fair elections at the local, state and national levels. The American system of representative democracy helped create the most powerful nation on Earth, but it remains fragile and must be protected.
- Generous people. Numerous local organizations are providing free meals or gift donations throughout the holidays, reflecting a community that works to help our neighbors. As Rich Melnick, a retired judge who has spent decades providing holiday meals, said: “There’s just a lot of people who need help. Some people are alone, and they just want to be with other people. It’s nice to give back.”
- Fun and games. Columbia River High School recently won its fourth consecutive state championship in volleyball. Ridgefield won its second consecutive championship in girls soccer. The football teams from Camas and Seton Catholic are in the state semifinals in their respective classifications. They’re only games, but athletics provide lifelong lessons for competitors and provide the rest of us with enjoyable diversions.
- Columbian readers. The past 15 years or so have been difficult for the news industry, with online news, online advertising and social media upending the marketplace. The Columbian is an increasingly rare example of a locally owned news outlet, supported by readers and contributors to our Community Funded Journalism Program as we strive to inform Clark County.
We hope that everyone in our community has many blessings to count today. Happy Thanksgiving.
