Originally published in the Orange Country Register
In Judaism, the Torah shares the mitzvah of bikkurim, which emphasizes the importance of giving thanks. The New Testament shares instances of Jesus Christ thanking God for His providence. And the Prophet Muhammad taught us that one who is not grateful to man cannot be grateful to God.
Similarly, all religions stress the importance of giving thanks. This is what makes the Thanksgiving holiday so special. It transcends religious differences and reminds us that gratitude is something all faiths have in common.