On this special occasion, we surround ourselves with family and friends, celebrating the light in our lives. We practice gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us; we appreciate the love that has enveloped us throughout our childhood, the growth and lessons we have learned along the way.
Life’s journey has been kinder to some than to others. This is a time to show love and compassion for the less fortunate. Everyone deserves help and community.
When I was in elementary school, we celebrated Valentine’s Day. We decorated shoe boxes and slit holes in the top to resemble piggy banks. Our parents bought fun cards, we signed them and stuffed them into our friends’ boxes. All of the cards had different slogans, so we shared the more intimate cards with our closer friends. The kids with whom we rarely conversed received the leftovers. Those children were often excluded from our birthday parties, as well. We are all equal, in the past and in the present. Some kids drew the short straws. Today, let us welcome these people to the table. We must spread our love beyond the reach of our arms and be grateful for the hands that we hold.
Remembering the important blessings and people in our lives, let us give thanks, eat until we can barely move, and take really long naps.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving!
–SJB