While many associate Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims, its modern incarnation originated during the Civil War, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln. In 1863, amidst the turmoil of a divided nation, Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, envisioning a future of peace and reconciliation.

His proclamation called for healing and the restoration of unity, values that resonate even today. In our current climate of political division, we've seen relationships strained and animosity rise. But if Lincoln could foresee unity after the Civil War, surely we can find common ground now.

The irony isn't lost that Thanksgiving, a holiday born from conflict, has become a symbolic battleground for political disagreements. We've created the stereotype of family arguments erupting during holiday gatherings, highlighting how political divides can impact even the most cherished traditions.

The very fact that we use Thanksgiving as an example of political division shows how deeply we value this holiday. It's as if we're saying, "Things are so bad, they're even ruining Thanksgiving."

Many people have experienced strained relationships due to political differences. Some avoid political discussions altogether, while others see their political beliefs as intertwined with their identity. Regardless of one's political stance, the animosity we feel today pales in comparison to the hatred directed at Lincoln during the Civil War.

Yet, Lincoln remains a symbol of American greatness, and it's fitting that he established Thanksgiving, a truly American holiday. There are indications that people are ready to move past the animosity and rebuild connections. Thanksgiving presents a perfect opportunity to begin this healing process.

A simple phone call, a text message, or a conversation with a family member we disagree with can be a significant step towards restoring civility and understanding. Lincoln paved the way for this 161 years ago, and Thanksgiving has held a special place in our hearts ever since. Let this year's Thanksgiving mark the end of recent anger and the beginning of a more compassionate era in American political life.

Let us honor Lincoln's legacy by embracing unity and understanding this Thanksgiving.