It’s that time of year again where we give thanks. Thanksgiving used to be a bit of a novelty for me when I first moved to America. I treated it as a practice run for Christmas – but these days (now that I am a bonafide American), I actually use this holiday to reflect on and appreciate all that I have. The story goes that the pilgrims and Native Americans all feasted together but I think that was just a good PR spin – other sources describe it more like the current situation going on with the impending arrival of the Syrian refugees. Apparently 26 US governors have said they will bar them from settling in their states. Not only is this idiotic in the obvious sense, but since when did we have state border control? My understanding is that once you have residential status you are free to travel nationwide? My southern friends would call this ‘blowing smoke up your rear’. Either way Thanksgiving has good intentions and I particularly like that everyone, whether they have religious beliefs or not, can join in the celebrations and all come together.
The main story on all our minds is surely all the horrors going on in the world, sadly far too many to mention. It’s so heartbreaking that the people who plan these atrocities encourage and brainwash naive individuals to carry out these evil actions on their behalf. Apparently a 15 year old was involved in the Paris incident. I really can’t comprehend that anyone with an ounce of intelligence thinks it’s ok to commit these acts of terrorism – war is not the answer, we need to fight back with peace. My first peace march was at the age of 4 with the Women for Peace; they like to think they sowed the first seeds of harmony in Northern Ireland. I think it might be time to march again as this bombing stuff doesn’t seem to be working out so well. I have seen many people blindly pointing fingers at the Muslim community.
As my great-niece wisely observed “if a dog bites you it doesn’t mean every dog in the world will bite you, whoever believes that, well they are just so dumb”. If only everyone could be as smart as an 8 year old!
If this is your first Thanksgiving and you are not quite sure what to do, visit our Facebook page via www.Britsin.LA as we have lots of suggestions posted there. Including info on free visits on Black Friday to 49 different National parks – if you haven’t been, this is a must see. I spent a few days camping in Big Sur under the Redwood trees one year and it was one of the most beautiful settings I have ever visited. Plus a great escape from the ridiculous shopping madness!
If you want to join us at any of our upcoming events you can find all the details on our website. We have Breakfast every Tuesday and a Pub Quiz twice a month too. Next one is November 24th. Don’t be afraid to come solo as we are a very friendly bunch.
Tickets for our Christmas event with Ukares at the British Consulate are selling very fast – you can get all the details on ukares.org
If you have any questions or comments drop me a line at eileen@britsin.la
Happy Thanksgiving!
Eileen
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