October 7th marks Canadas Thanksgiving Day, a day to reflect and be thankful for the blessings we receive. It is a time for family, friends and neighbours to come together and celebrate the harvest season. Thanksgiving was first celebrated in Canada back in 1578, by an explorer named Martin Frobisher. He had been searching for a Northwest Passage, an easier route to Asia, when he ran into some native people who offered food and helped guide him on his journey. To thank them, Frobisher held a formal celebration and called it “The First Thanksgiving.” In 1859, an American holiday of Thanksgiving was also created, which now falls on the fourth Thursday in November. After much confusion over which holiday to celebrate, the Canadian Parliament eventually chose the second Monday in October as a national holiday to celebrate Thanksgiving. Today, this harvest festival in Canada is a special time to give thanks for our good fortunes and to be grateful for the people who touch and add value to our lives. For many, Thanksgiving is a tradition deeply rooted in family and coming together to share in a meal. Many people use this day to express their gratitude to those around them in a tangible way. Often celebrating with food, decorations and holding special dinners within family and friends. Let us all take the time to find ways to be thankful and to appreciate the joy that comes with being blessed. Let us also reflect on the power of connection and belonging that comes through coming together and shared experiences. Happy Thanksgiving!