Thanksgiving Quotes

10 Inspiring Thanksgiving Quotes to Share Gratitude

ByH.O Portofino
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Thanksgiving is a special holiday in America. It’s a time when families and friends come together. They share a big feast and moments filled with gratitude.

This collection of 10 inspiring Thanksgiving quotes is a great way to show your thanks. You’ll find quotes from famous authors like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Oprah Winfrey. These “happy thanksgiving quotes” and “gratitude messages” remind us to be thankful for what we have.

Looking for “thankful wishes” to post on social media or “appreciation quotes” for your Thanksgiving cards? This selection has the perfect words to celebrate the holiday. These quotes can make you feel uplifted and inspire you to be more grateful every day.

1 : Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation Quote

In the midst of the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln issued a profound proclamation. It has become a cherished part of the nation’s Thanksgiving tradition. Signed on October 3, 1863, Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation was a powerful call for unity, gratitude, and reflection during a time of immense turmoil and hardship.

Historical Context of Lincoln’s Quote

The proclamation was made during the bloodiest year of the Civil War. This conflict had torn the country apart. Yet, despite the ongoing battles and immense suffering, Lincoln recognized the blessings that had been bestowed upon the nation.

He highlighted the preservation of peace with foreign nations, the increase in population, and the advancements in various industries. All of these he attributed to the “Almighty God.”

Meaning Behind Lincoln’s Words

At the core of Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation was a message of gratitude and humility. He urged the American people to acknowledge the gifts and blessings from God with gratitude and penitence for national sins. The proclamation emphasized the need for unity, healing, and a shared sense of thankfulness during a time of deep division and anguish.

Modern Relevance of the Quote

Today, Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation continues to resonate with Americans. It reminds us of the importance of family gathering quotes, blessing quotes, and holiday greetings, even in the face of adversity. The proclamation’s call for national unity and thankfulness for the nation’s blessings serves as a powerful reminder that, despite our differences, we are all part of a shared American experience.

Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation stands as a timeless testament to the enduring power of gratitude. It shows the ability of the human spirit to find strength and hope in the darkest of times. Its message of unity, reflection, and reverence for the Almighty remains as relevant today as it was in 1863, inspiring us to come together in the spirit of family, blessing, and holiday greetings.

2 : Maya Angelou’s Gratitude Quote

Maya Angelou was a famous American poet, author, and civil rights activist. She left a lasting impact with her words. Her quote, “Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer,” shows her deep gratitude for life. It highlights the power of gratitude to change our lives.

Maya Angelou’s Perspective on Gratitude

Angelou’s quote tells us to make gratitude a big part of our lives. It’s not just for Thanksgiving, but every day. She believes a thankful heart can make each day better, filled with joy and positivity.

Impact of Angelou’s Words

Angelou’s quote has touched many hearts around the world. It encourages us to see the good in every situation. It’s a reminder that even when things are tough, there’s always something to be thankful for.

Application in Daily Life

Living by Angelou’s words can change our lives. By being grateful, we learn to see the good in everything. It helps us appreciate the small things and the people who make our lives better.

Maya Angelou’s gratitude quote is still inspiring people today. It teaches us to be thankful every day. By following her advice, we can live a happier, more fulfilling life, filled with gratitude.

3 : Ralph Waldo Emerson on Thanksgiving

American essayist and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new.” This quote shows his belief in the power of gratitude and meaningful connections. Emerson saw the value in being thankful for our relationships, which is a key part of his philosophy.

Emerson’s Philosophy of Gratitude

Emerson thought that showing gratitude was key to a happy life. He believed that by valuing our relationships, we grow to appreciate the world more. His happy thanksgiving quotes and appreciation quotes share this important idea.

Literary Analysis of the Quote

Emerson’s Thanksgiving quote is simple yet powerful. It shows his gratitude for both long-time and new friends. This thanksgiving reflection encourages us to value the people in our lives, no matter how long we’ve known them.

Contemporary Significance

In today’s digital world, Emerson’s words are more important than ever. His message about the importance of personal connections is a timely reminder. Emerson’s wisdom inspires us to be grateful and strengthen the bonds that make our lives richer.

4 : John F. Kennedy’s Unity Quote

As Americans come together for Thanksgiving, President John F. Kennedy’s words remind us of the importance of unity and gratitude. He believed in bringing people together, despite their differences, to celebrate the nation’s blessings.

Kennedy’s Vision of Thanksgiving

In his 1963 Thanksgiving Proclamation, Kennedy said, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” This quote shows that true thanksgiving is not just about gratitude messages or family gathering quotes. It’s about the actions that come from a real and heartfelt holiday greetings.

Historical Background

Kennedy’s presidency was during a tough time in America, with the Cold War and civil rights movement. His call for unity and gratitude during Thanksgiving was especially meaningful. It reminded Americans that, even in hard times, they could find common ground through shared appreciation and working for the greater good.

Message for Today’s World

In today’s world, Kennedy’s Thanksgiving message is still very relevant. His words urge Americans to “live by” their gratitude, turning it into actions that unite people. By following this path of gratitude and togetherness, we can honor President Kennedy’s legacy and strive for a more united and prosperous future.

5 : William Faulkner’s Family Quote

William Faulkner, a famous author, shared a unique view on gratitude in families. He said, “Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all.” This quote shows that thankfulness is not just feeling thankful but also doing something about it.

Faulkner’s View on Family

Faulkner saw gratitude as something that flows like electricity. This idea fits well with family gatherings. When we share thanks, it can really bring us together and make our bonds stronger.

Quote’s Cultural Impact

Faulkner’s words have made us think more about being thankful. He taught us that gratitude needs to be actively shown. This means we should make an effort to show our thanks, not just say it without meaning it.

Modern Family Applications

In today’s families, Faulkner’s words are very relevant. They remind us to be truly thankful. By showing gratitude through our words and actions, we can build stronger relationships and face challenges together.

Thankful WishesFamily Gathering QuotesFestive Sayings
“Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all.” – William Faulkner“We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count.” – Neal A. Maxwell“Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow.” – Edward Sandford Martin
“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson“Gratitude can transform common days into Thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – William Arthur Ward“Thanksgiving is often linked to family dysfunction, bringing out the best in challenging relationships.”

Faulkner’s quote teaches us to be more active in showing gratitude in our families. By following this, we can grow closer, be more thankful, and make memories that last long after the holidays.

6 : Henry David Thoreau’s Nature Quote

As Thanksgiving nears, let’s think about Henry David Thoreau’s wise words. He was an American philosopher and naturalist. His writings often showed his deep love for nature and gratitude.

Thoreau’s Connection to Nature

Thoreau lived in a small cabin by Walden Pond. He wrote about his time there in “Walden.” This experience deeply connected him to nature.

Quote’s Environmental Message

Thoreau once said, “Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express our appreciation of the gifts of nature and of life.” This quote shows his belief in linking gratitude to nature.

Relevance to Modern Life

In today’s world, Thoreau’s words are very relevant. They remind us to be thankful for nature’s gifts. With growing environmental issues, his message is more important than ever.

By valuing nature, we can find new purpose and inspiration. Thoreau’s wisdom teaches us to appreciate the earth’s rhythms. This way, we can protect our resources and live in harmony with nature.

7 : Benjamin Franklin’s Wisdom

Benjamin Franklin was a key figure in America’s founding. He was known for his wise thoughts on gratitude. His sayings on thanksgiving mixed practical advice with heartfelt and .

Franklin’s Thanksgiving Perspective

Franklin saw thanksgiving as a way to appreciate life’s efforts. He believed in working hard and being thankful. He once said, “Take one thing with another, and the world is a pretty good sort of a world, and ’tis our duty to make the best of it and be thankful.” This shows his view, urging us to be thankful for what we have.

Historical Context

Franklin’s thoughts on thanksgiving were shaped by early America. As a key figure, he saw both struggles and victories. His mix of practicality and gratitude fit the spirit of the time, influencing the nation’s character.

Modern Interpretation

Today, Franklin’s wisdom on thanksgiving is still meaningful. It talks about American values like hard work and gratitude. His message to find joy in the simple things and appreciate our world is timeless. Modern views of his words highlight the importance of balancing work and thankfulness, encouraging a heart full of gratitude.

8 : Helen Keller’s Gratitude Message

Helen Keller’s words on thankfulness are truly inspiring. Her life, filled with challenges and triumphs, gives her messages a special depth. Keller’s experiences show the incredible power of being thankful.

Keller’s Philosophy on Gratitude

Keller’s thankful wishes and appreciation quotes show her deep understanding of gratitude. As someone who was deafblind, she knew the value of feeling things with the heart. Her thoughts on gratitude have touched many people over the years.

Quote’s Inspirational Impact

Keller’s words on gratitude have touched many hearts. They remind us to find joy in things we can’t see or touch. Her message encourages us to look deeper and appreciate the unseen beauty in life.

Personal Application

Living by Keller’s gratitude philosophy can change your life. It helps you see the beauty in everyday moments. Her thankful wishes and appreciation quotes remind us to be thankful, even when things are tough.

9 : Walt Whitman’s Unity Quote

As we come together for Thanksgiving, Walt Whitman’s words speak of unity and gratitude. Whitman envisioned America as a diverse yet unified nation. His 200th birthday was celebrated a few years ago.

Whitman’s Vision of America

In “Leaves of Grass,” Whitman said, “I am large, I contain multitudes.” This shows his belief in America’s diversity and connection. His poetry celebrates the nation’s ability to welcome all, seeing our differences as our strength.

Poetic Analysis

Whitman’s Thanksgiving quotes are filled with poetic beauty. His language, like “I am the hounded slave, I wince at the bite of the dogs,” speaks to a universal gratitude. It shows that our shared humanity is what unites us, despite our differences.

Contemporary Meaning

Today, Whitman’s dream of a united America is still inspiring. When we share happy thanksgiving quotes and thankful thoughts with loved ones, Whitman’s words remind us. They tell us that embracing our festive sayings and differences is the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

10 : Mark Twain’s Humorous Take

Mark Twain was known for his wit and wisdom. His funny take on Thanksgiving adds joy to the holiday. He joined 10 others in a collection of 60 Thanksgiving quotes, bringing his unique humor and insight.

Twain’s Wit and Wisdom

Twain mixed sharp social comments with laughter in his Thanksgiving jokes. He even suggested moving Thanksgiving to December 5th to include his birthday party in New York City. This shows his playful side and his love for challenging old traditions.

Quote’s Humorous Element

Twain’s Thanksgiving quotes are funny because he loves to poke fun at holiday customs. He also makes us think about their deeper meaning. His words make us laugh and think at the same time.

Modern-Day Relevance

Today, Twain’s funny view on holiday greetings, festive sayings, and Thanksgiving reflections is still relevant. His mix of humor and deep thoughts on American culture and human nature reminds us to enjoy Thanksgiving with a smile. It also encourages us to remember the true spirit of gratitude and celebration.

FAQ

What themes do the Thanksgiving quotes cover?

The quotes talk about being thankful, family bonds, coming together, nature, wisdom, and the holiday’s spirit.

Famous people like Abraham Lincoln, Maya Angelou, and Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote these quotes. Others include John F. Kennedy, William Faulkner, Henry David Thoreau, Benjamin Franklin, Helen Keller, Walt Whitman, and Mark Twain.

What is the significance of Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation quote?

Lincoln’s quote was made during the Civil War. It made Thanksgiving a national holiday. This act has made it a big part of American culture and tradition.

How does Maya Angelou’s quote on gratitude reflect her philosophy?

Angelou’s quote says to make gratitude a nightly prayer. It shows her deep thanks for life’s gifts. It encourages us to make gratitude a big part of our lives.

What is the significance of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote on friends and gratitude?

Emerson’s quote talks about being thankful for friends. It shows his belief in the power of personal connections. This is still important today, even with all the technology.

How does John F. Kennedy’s Thanksgiving quote relate to his presidency?

Kennedy’s quote talks about being united and thankful as a nation. It shows his dream of Thanksgiving as a time for Americans to come together, despite their differences.

What is the unique perspective offered by William Faulkner’s quote on gratitude?

Faulkner says thankfulness is like electricity. It needs to be made and used to exist. This quote challenges us to be active in our gratitude, especially with family.

How does Henry David Thoreau’s Thanksgiving quote reflect his connection to nature?

Thoreau’s quote shows his love for nature. It encourages us to appreciate the beauty and resources of the world. This message is very important today, with our environmental challenges.

Franklin’s wisdom combines being practical with being thankful. It shows the balance between hard work and gratitude. These values are still important in America today.

How does Helen Keller’s quote on gratitude reflect her unique perspective?

Keller’s quote talks about feeling things with the heart. It shows her experiences as a deafblind person. It teaches us to appreciate things deeply and mindfully.

Whitman’s quote likely talks about a unified, diverse America. It’s relevant today, especially during holidays. These times bring people together, showing our diversity.

How does Mark Twain’s humorous Thanksgiving quote provide insight?

Twain’s quote is funny but also insightful. It pokes fun at holiday traditions. At the same time, it shows the true meaning of gratitude and celebration in America today.

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