Thanksgiving is more than a day to eat loads of turkey and pumpkin pie. It’s a celebration of life, family, and gratitude. It’s a day to pause and reflect on the blessings we’ve received, the people who matter most, and the life God has given us. In a world that is often divided, Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to come together in gratitude and reaffirm our commitment to what truly matters: the sanctity of life.
As a holiday centered around family and appreciating life even with its challenges, Thanksgiving carries a profound life-affirming message. Here’s why Thanksgiving is a life-affirming holiday at its core and how we can celebrate it.
Thanksgiving is all about family.
Thanksgiving is a celebration of family—whether biological or chosen—and a reminder of the importance of gratitude and unity. Its origins trace back to 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people came together to share a meal. This tradition grew into a holiday focused on togetherness. Sitting around the table with loved ones reflects the joy and strength that family brings to our lives.
This deeply resonates with all of us at Save the Storks as we place the family at our core. We advocate for every child to have the opportunity to grow up in a family that loves and cherishes them. This Thanksgiving, let’s reconnect with the heart of American culture. We do this by honoring the gift of family and treasuring the moments that draw us closer together.
It’s a time to be thankful.
Reflecting on 2024, there’s so much to be thankful for within the life-affirming community. From new mobile medical clinics hitting the road to countless women choosing life for their babies, there’s no shortage of victories. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to celebrate these milestones and thank God for the progress being made to protect and support life.
Thanksgiving can lead to powerful, life-affirming conversations.
Being around the dinner table can be a time for meaningful discussions. While these conversations may sometimes feel daunting, especially if your family has different beliefs than you, they can also be powerful opportunities to share the heart of the life-affirming message. Focus on love, compassion, and empathy—sharing why we believe every life is precious and deserves to be celebrated. Remember to ask thoughtful questions and approach conversations with a genuine desire to listen. Enter discussions with an open heart, focusing on understanding your family’s perspectives rather than simply waiting for your turn to speak. While you may not immediately change someone’s mind, these discussions can plant seeds of understanding and open hearts to the beauty of life.
It’s an opportunity to invite single moms to your Thanksgiving.
For many single moms, Thanksgiving can be a lonely time. Without a support system, they may feel overwhelmed or excluded from the joy of the holiday season. This year, consider inviting a single mom and her children to your Thanksgiving celebration.
By opening your home, you’re offering more than just a meal—you’re showing her that she’s not alone, that she’s valued, and that her family is cherished. This simple act of kindness reflects the heart of the life-affirming movement, which seeks to empower women and support them in every step of their journey.
This Thanksgiving, let’s take action.
This Thanksgiving, let’s do more than give thanks—let’s take action. Spend time in prayer as a family for abortion-vulnerable women. Whether it’s through a financial gift, inviting a single mom to dinner, or having a meaningful conversation with your family, your actions can make a difference.
Together, we can pray that every life that starts in the womb this year will have a place at the Thanksgiving table next year.
Give the gift of life today.
This Thanksgiving, you can make a life-changing difference. Right now, a woman is facing the crossroads between choosing life or loss—and your support could be the hope she needs to be brave and choose life.
By donating today, you’ll help Save the Storks provide the care, love, and resources women need to embrace life.
