As Thanksgiving approaches, I've been doing a bit of research. About 388 years ago, 90 Wampanoag with their “highest king” (as found in a settler's diary) and his wife made a two-day trek to Plimoth. The original reasons seem to be lost in history or fogged by lack of translators on the scene. What we do know is that the remaining pilgrims, decimated by the harsh winter, yet more hopeful because of the new settlement and good harvest, and their visitors, used the occasion for a harvest celebration that is a forerunner of our Thanksgiving. Everyone contributed, and everyone partied!

Since that time we've added layers and ever more layers of tradition, from our own trek to grandma's house where we find foods such as turkey and pumpkin pie to the official work of our own highest king, which is the presidential pardon of one or two luckier turkeys. Embedded in it all is the “thanks-giving” to God for the gifts that have once more come from the earth, and to those who have taken part in growing them.

All those years ago, it was quite apparent who the co-workers were. Today, thanks to the speed of planes, trains and trucks, our food comes from around the world and we rarely see the farmers who plant the seed or the workers who pick the crops that come to our table. We don't have the opportunity to appreciate each other's knowledge or strength or patience or skill. That doesn't mean it isn't there! As you notice a label from California or Argentina or China or Indonesia or Egypt, take a moment to wonder about the people behind the labels and to be grateful for their work.

We aren't up close to appreciate, neither are we up close to notice any needs. Shut behind locked doors in our homes and isolated in our small vehicles as we go to the office or the supermarket, our reliance on each other for survival gets masked. Yet our local agencies and churches are seeing the need. Calvary Food Pantry reports that they are now serving 300-350 families each month, even as their food and money resources are dwindling. Many churches, organizations and families make an extra effort to include those who are struggling in the holiday celebrations by contributing food or money or serving at community meals. It's become our way of sharing the Thanksgiving -inspired hospitality. It's a wonderful and important tradition. Yet, the tradition of celebration was based on the day-in and day-out caring and sharing that made survival possible and gratitude heartfelt.

It came at the end of a year of working together, of enriching each others' lives.

So this year, as Thanksgiving approaches, let's be thankful for a world full of people who have helped to feed us and clothe us. Party hearty! Then, full of good cheer, let's intentionally reach out to support each other through whatever harsh winters are to come.

Have a really wonderful Thanksgiving!

The Rev. Eileen J. Winter is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Auburn