“Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse.”—Henry Van Dyke
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays of the year. Partly because I love to eat, but mostly because it is an expression of what we should show every day. It is a splendid time to gather with family and friends and be thankful.
At Thanksgiving, it is not what we have on the table for which we should be thankful—though for many there might be nothing to put on the table. The true blessing of Thanksgiving is who is around the table. Let us be thankful for family, friends, and neighbors. The food is just whipped cream on the pumpkin pie.
With football, cooking, and family dynamics, we can easily be distracted from the intent of the day. The intent is to express our gratitude. For some, this is not always easy.
Ask yourself—for what am I thankful?
Today will be nothing overly profound, just the expression thanksgiving.
- I am thankful for my faith—that I am not so bound up in religiosity as to lose sight of my calling.
- I am thankful for my family—though mine is scattered they are with me everywhere.
- I am thankful for friends—those who are near and far; all who profoundly influence me daily.
- I am thankful for my neighbors—be they friend or foe.
- I am thankful for the impetus to grow—for the inclination to be my best today and be better tomorrow.
- I am thankful for my health and the opportunity to help others find a path to well-being.
- I am thankful for the opportunity to have an impact on others and have a role in shaping my world.
These are the turkey and sweet potatoes. Anything else I might receive—money, material things, fame—these are the dessert.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Carpe momento!
“I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.”—Henry David Thoreau