A Thanksgiving Heart
I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder. ~G.K. Chesterton
This Thanksgiving season, one is so mindful again of the freedom that the western countries still enjoy. Thankfulness abounds in our hearts as America continues to enjoy her freedom in spite of the onslaught of hatred from those who envy that freedom and therefore want to attack and destroy it.
I am also mindful of the soldiers who bravely fight and die for this freedom that we hold so close and dear to our hearts. Freedom does not just happen but is earned through the dedication and love of our countrymen. It gives its people the many options to become who they would like to be. It gives avenues of expression that those who live in countries that are led by tyrants, could not even imagine would be possible.
In thankfulness, we acknowledge the great opportunity of education. One is grateful that our children are still free to obtain a meaningful and lasting education, whether that education comes from our public schools or from other avenues a parent might choose. This advantage is a direct by-product of a free society and should never be taken for granted. Many foreigners come to our land to obtain an excellent education which broadens their own opportunities. One is thankful that we have the freedom to read any literature available in our many libraries and book stores, without any fear of reprisal.
America is the home of many beliefs and numerous religions. One can only be thankful that the search for “truth” is an option open to all who desire it. We are free to worship God, the God of Love that is, in any form we desire. With that search for “truth” comes a desire to change oneself. To grow through self-honesty and to become kinder to those with whom we are in contact is a direct by-product of such an honorable search. The search for “truth” brings great responsibility, for truth will demand growth and change, be it on a personal level or on a national or global level. It will bring mankind into greater awareness of all that is still possible and within our reach.
As we sat at our Thanksgiving tables this year and looked at those whom we love and cherish, I pray that our hearts will have become, once again, keenly aware, with deep gratitude for the many, many wonderful gifts that we have been given. Let us pray that these same gifts will open our hearts and cause us to grow in greater awareness and in that growth, recognize the awesome responsibility that comes with such an awareness.
I wish all of my dear readers an unceasing Thanksgiving Heart!
