"An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving" by Louisa May Alcott
Nov 23, 2023
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In this podcast, the host celebrates Thanksgiving Day by sharing an unabridged reading of Louisa May Alcott's short story, 'An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving.' The story is filled with financial lessons and provides a glimpse into life in the 1830s. The podcast also includes chapters about preparing for Thanksgiving, discovering hidden papers, and the joyous Thanksgiving feast and festivities.
The Bassett family's Thanksgiving celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, family bonds, and the ability to find joy in challenging situations.
Louisa May Alcott's story showcases the value of flexibility and making the best of unexpected circumstances, emphasizing the timeless values that make Thanksgiving a special holiday.
Deep dives
A Festive Homecoming
The Bassett family in New Hampshire prepare for a Thanksgiving dinner, showcasing their love and sense of togetherness despite their financial constraints. The children help with the preparations, including shelling corn, chopping meat, and making pies. Unexpectedly, the family receives news that the grandmother is gravely ill, prompting the parents to leave immediately, assuming they are going to a funeral. The children take charge and successfully cook the Thanksgiving dinner. However, the family returns with guests, revealing that they had mistaken the message, and the grandmother is actually recovering. The evening concludes with games, dancing, and gratefulness for the unexpected joyous occasion.
Surprising Encounters
While the children are playing outside, they are frightened by a person dressed as a bear, who turns out to be a family friend trying to play a prank. They quickly recover from the scare and enjoy the surprise visit. The unexpected arrival of relatives and friends adds to the festive atmosphere. Despite a few cooking mishaps, such as bitter stuffing and a failed pudding, the family shares a laughter-filled dinner. The evening continues with games, dancing, and a warm family gathering.
Lessons of Gratitude
The Bassett family expresses gratitude for the mistaken news of the grandmother's illness, as it brings unexpected joy and togetherness. The children learn the importance of flexibility and making the best of unexpected circumstances. The day's events reinforce the value of family, community, and the joy of sharing moments of celebration and laughter.
An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving
Louisa May Alcott's story highlights the simple yet meaningful celebrations of Thanksgiving in a bygone era, characterized by love, resourcefulness, and resilience. The narrative captures the spirit of gratitude, family bonds, and the ability to find joy and laughter even in challenging situations. It serves as a reminder of the timeless values that make Thanksgiving a special holiday.
Today, in celebration of the American holiday "Thanksgiving Day," I want to share with you a recording of short story written by Louisa May Alcott, called "An Old-Fashioned Thanksgiving."
The audio file has no commentary—it's merely an unabridged reading of the story—and is suitable for you to share with your children as a worthwhile story to enjoy this time of year.
But this story is filled with financial lessons for those with ears to hear.
As you listen to a life of long ago (circa 1830), I'd encourage you to reflect on the life that you and I now live in comparison.
For me, this reflection fills me with Thanksgiving, which is the starting point of living a rich life now.
You are rich. I am rich. Let's realize it and act appropriately.