In a quiet moment on Thanksgiving Day (yes, I found one or two!) I am reflecting on the name given to this day – Thanksgiving. Thanks for the giving – what is the giving? From whom or from whence does the giving come? What am I giving in thanks?
Within my own experience I feel disconnected when I am in the kitchen, making the cranberry sauce for the turkey that I will not be eating, smelling the flesh and stuffing as they cook. It may sound sad but it is real for me. I am drawing into the meaning of this Day of Thanks in our modern society, for myself, and possibly many others. Our relationship with food is often one of love/hate. It is very different from the early settlers in North America and the pagan traditions from which this has evolved. The food supply for them was uncertain from year to year, mine is certain, at least at this moment in time.
So what is it in our world now that is of uncertainty? What is it that is there in front of me, a scarcity, to which I am thankful? And how am I reciprocating to a Universe that is so generous to give so much?
I am dipping deep into myself and connecting . Oh the Blessings are many, countless. I offer up my Thanks to this Life, all experiences, all relationships, and the Guiding Hand that knows before I do what is necessary for the next step on the journey. From the turkey in the oven, to the leaves that have fallen from the trees, to the friends and family that share and support – THANKS. I “give” to you all that I have to offer. May my heart and door stay open to listen, feel and care.
Shanthi