Mr. Sparky, Thanksgiving is a U.S.-oriented holiday. It was originally started in the 1600s, to celebrate the harvest. It's gone in and out of fashion a number of times for various reasons. The current version of the holiday has been around since 1939. It was (and is) considered to be a celebration and a symbol of good fortune and family togetherness.

And don't be too hard on yourself, Reb! It looks like you're doing something right to me!  :)