As you know, Thursday, November 26 is Thanksgiving Day, a holiday special to all Americans and one that has always held significance for the American School community. It is a day for all of us to acknowledge our blessings and express gratitude for them. 

Although the first feast of giving thanks goes back to the 18th century, it was not until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln decreed that there should be a national holiday set aside for a day of gratitude, and that it should be held on the fourth Thursday of November.  In 1863, the United States was embroiled in a bitter Civil War. In spite of the hardships and tragedy that Americans were facing, President Lincoln thought it was “fit and proper” that the blessings people enjoyed “should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice…” 

 The whole world is going through trying and difficult times right now, and it seems that again it is fit and proper to take a moment to reflect on those things for which we have to be thankful. With that in mind, we wish you and your families health, prosperity, and a Happy Thanksgiving.

 As is customary in the U.S., there will be no lessons on Friday, November 27.