It is nothing new for me to be writing about gratitude, since giving thanks is a regular part of my prayer practice and I firmly believe that if we could replace an attitude of entitlement with one of thanksgiving and gratitude, the world would be an infinitely better place. But today is Thanksgiving Day, and it gives us a special opportunity to give thanks….for the big things and the little ones. And so this day I give thanks…
…that I wake up on these cold mornings in a bed in a heated home.
…that I have enough (indeed, more than enough) food to eat.
…that I have a job that pays me enough (indeed, more than enough) to meet the needs of my family.
…that I have friends who laugh with me in times of joy and who comfort me in times of grief and sadness, and who love me through it all.
…that my daughter delights me with her gift of song, and pretends I still am a help to her in her homework.
…that my husband supports me in all things.
And on this day I remember in a special way…
…those who will wake up on the cold street or who will go to sleep on an empty stomach.
…those who are jobless or who work two and three jobs and still can not make ends meet.
…those who do not experience the loving embrace and support of family and friends.
And I ask God on this Thankgiving Day to hold them – and all of us – in his loving embrace.
Happy Thanksgiving!
