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Now that Halloween (and all the candy you got) is in the bag, it’s time to look forward to Thanksgiving. When most Americans think about Thanksgiving, they think about getting together with family for a sumptuous meal and the expanding waistlines that often result.
However, it’s worth reflecting on the Mayflower journey to see where and how Thanksgiving began.
Once Upon a Time
The Mayflower is one of the most famous ships in the world. It set sail over 400 years ago on one of the most significant events in history. In September 1620, the Mayflower left Plymouth, England, with 102 passengers on board, including men, women, and children. These people were known as the Pilgrims and wanted to start a new life in a land where they could follow their religious beliefs freely.
The Challenging Voyage
It goes without saying that traveling on the Mayflower wasn’t anything like taking a modern cruise. The relatively small ship went up against strong winds and waves threatening to sink it. The interior and sleeping quarters were cramped, and there wasn’t much fresh food or water. However, the Pilgrims did their best with what they had and tried to stay positive during the arduous journey by singing songs, sharing stories, and looking after one another. They relied on the hope of a brighter future to remain strong.
Landing in the New World
The Mayflower spent approximately 66 days at sea, finally reaching the shores of what is now Massachusetts in November 1620. The land was beautiful and wild, and the Pilgrims called the landing spot Plymouth after the port they’d left in England.
The First Winter Friendship
The first winter in the New World was more challenging than the journey to get there. It was cold, food was scarce, and many Pilgrims got sick. Sadly, not everyone survived. However, in the spring, the Pilgrims met the Native Americans, including a Patuxet man named Squanto.
Squanto and the other Native Americans taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn, catch fish, and survive in their new home. This friendship was vital for the Pilgrims, and in the fall of 1621, they celebrated their first successful harvest with a feast — the first Thanksgiving.
The Mayflower’s Legacy
The Mayflower’s journey isn’t just a historical event; it’s a story of hope, determination, and courage in the face of adversity. The Pilgrims’ journey teaches us the strength of the human spirit and the value of following your dreams.
Just like the Pilgrims, we should all embrace the challenges we face and push forward in the hope of a better future.
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