Many places of business have lighted message signs in front advertising products or offering seasonal greetings. Just the other day I passed one. In the time that I approached and passed it, I only had time to read 2 consecutive thoughts of several. The ones I read: Do you know the symptoms? Happy Thanksgiving!.
My thoughts wander to the "symtoms" of a "Happy Thanksgiving". How do you know if you are having a "Happy Thanksgiving"? There are at least three symptoms that came to mind: gathering - abundance - gratitude. Often we find ourselves making arrangements to gather together to share time during Thanksgiving. It is a holiday shared by all Americans and not specific to religion. Families gather, sometimes traveling great distances to spend time with each other. Food is gathered and prepared, and special meals are shared. In this I find abundance ~ of provision and of time shared to reflect upon the blessings of life. While focusing on our blessings, it is easier to be thankful. But are these really the symptoms of a Happy Thanksgiving?
Our plans often get in the way, often draw our attention away from God. Gathering together with God, spending time being nourished by His carefully prepared Word feeds the soul. In these times, we find the abundance of God's goodness and grace; we find blessings beyond need. Surrounded by such provision, the heart must acknowledge Our Sustainer, and with gratitude - whisper and shout - Baruch Hashem Adonai! Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
In our gathering, let's be sure to set a place for the Holy One. In our abundance, let's focus on The Source of all goodness and blessings. In our gratitude, let's remember The Giver of all good things and respond with gratitude. Baruch Hashem Adonai! Blessed be the Name of the Lord. Are these your symptoms of a Happy Thanksgiving? If so, then every day will be a day to celebrate Thanksgiving. ~dho
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