Thanksgiving Day

Here in the Midwestern USA, it's Thanksgiving Day. The first few flakes of snow drifted by my window this morning, the days are getting shorter, and convincing myself that winter is a long way away is becoming increasingly difficult. This is a day of reflection for many of us, to count the blessings in our lives and share time with family or friends.

I'm having dinner in a few hours with several friends. The menu will be Southern USA, Turkey Roulades, Gumbo, Hominy Casserole, Sweet Potato & Rutabaga Casserole, Cabbage Pudding, Bread Pudding with brandy sauce for dessert. I was born in Virginia, and have always had a spiritual connection with the South. This is the time of year when I start feeling homesick for the South, for (as a friend of mine once wrote) "magnolias bleeding their bright seeds into the snow".

I'm grateful for many things: health, meaningful work, the love of friends. Although we celebrate thanskgiving in this country in a special way on this day, for many years I've tried to start my day on awaking with a prayer of gratitude - that I have been given another day, that I be given the grace to Get It Right this time.

May you have a thoughtful and grateful day, whether or not Thanksgiving is part of your traditions!