The True Spirit of Thanksgiving: Lessons of Resilience and Gratitude

November 26, 2025
00:00 09:10
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Thanksgiving may bring to mind turkey and family gatherings, but its true origin carries a far deeper meaning.

Which got me thinking, “what exactly was happening in the lives of the pilgrims when they decided to have the first Thanksgiving?”

The answer surprised me. I knew the basics, of course, but there was so much more!

In this episode, we look back to 1621 and the remarkable resilience of the pilgrims, who paused to give thanks after a devastating winter that claimed half their community. Their gratitude wasn’t born from ease—it rose from loss, perseverance, and unwavering hope.

This is a great episode to listen to with your family or all by yourself.

Join me as we rediscover the heart of Thanksgiving and learn how practicing true gratitude can reshape our own lives.

Xo,

Donna

And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!

Listen in to learn more :
(01:50) Origins and Traditions of Thanksgiving

(07:32) Give Thanks in Everything


Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my new book -

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret.

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon.

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to be more confident in their faith!

Connect with Donna

Instagram: @donnaajones

Website:

www.donnajones.org

Donna’s speaking schedule:


https://donnajones.org/events/

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Meet Your Host
As a pastor’s wife with decades ministering to women, Donna Jones brings a wellspring of real-life wisdom, a lifetime of Biblical knowledge, and a dose of wit to propel listeners forward in their journey with God. She’s been described as “practical, biblical, engaging, and real, with the warmth you’d expect from a friend.”

Donna is the author of three books, including Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God and Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life. She’s written six Bible studies, four that deal with topics near to a woman’s heart: family, friendship, confidence, and contentment. Her works have been featured on Proverbs 31 Ministries, Focus on the Family, and Crosswalk. A national and international speaker, Donna has spoken to audiences in 28 states and on four continents and has been a guest on numerous podcasts and television shows.

Connect with Donna at www.donnajones.org, on Instagram @donnaajones or Facebook at Donna Jones, Speaker & Author.
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