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Here is a little history about Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

Sometimes people just follow or go along with family traditions, the media and retailers, where they shop and don’t realize why or what is the true meaning.

We should all know, in America, that this was the time the pilgrims landed in America and had a three-day feast to celebrate their discovery and safe landing.

Originally it had been the last Thursday since the time of Abraham Lincoln, but because of a calendar change in 1939, Franklin Roosevelt adjusted it to the 4th Thursday of the month. In 1941 it was declared an official Thanksgiving Day.

He decided because people were “grumpy” about this, that he would add a shopping day the day after Thanksgiving, becoming the first Christmas shopping day of the year, calling it “ Black Friday,” originating in Philadelphia in 1952.

There is sometimes a heavy, disruptive and violent pedestrian and vehicle traffic that occurs as people camp out in front of their favorite store claiming their space, which might open at 3 or 4 in the morning.

Retailers open all hours, turning a profit from “in the red” to being “in the black,” explaining the word black in case you have wondered for years.

I personally don’t go shopping on Black Friday or any day designated for this activity. I shop for what I need and, occasionally, for fun, but not for hours on end.

This holiday is also not the only time I give thanks, as my family and I are so blessed everyday for a peaceful, prosperous, life to give and make a difference in this world.

Spiritually, we grow and walk in His Word, which gives us authority over darkness and love to share and help others to live a more grateful, happy life.

Daily prayer is a big part in our lives to communicate with our God, listening to His daily  instructions for us and be filled with the peace from our Heavenly Father, always giving thanks.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever.” — Psalm 107:1

Think of all the blessings He has given you. Now, give them away.

Thank you, God, for America, Your covering and leading us as we ask and pray.

Kathie Deasy writes about religion for Orange Newsmedia. She can be reached at kathiedeasy@hotmail.com.