THANKS GIVING

I love this time of year, for me, it is Thanksgiving time. There is something about it that stirs the soul, a warmth that lingers in the heart. It is part of my story. Growing up halfway around the world, it was Autumn and it always felt magical to me. The trees would blaze with vibrant hues of red, orange, gold, and purple, as if nature itself was celebrating. The air turned crisp, carrying with it the comforting aroma of pumpkin pie and roasting turkey; scents that still fill my heart with nostalgia and joy.  

Thanksgiving has always been more than a holiday for my family, it is a homecoming. No matter whether we celebrate early or late, Thanksgiving brings us together. Around a table laden with delicious, familiar dishes, we pause, not just to enjoy the feast but to reflect on what truly matters. We recount treasured memories of family past and present, express gratitude for the blessings of the year gone by, and share our dreams and hopes for what lies ahead. It is a time of love, of laughter, of connection, a reminder of what grounds us and keeps us whole.  

Sometimes, we take a moment to read Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation from 1863. Written during the unrelenting storm of the Civil War, his words resonate deeply. They remind us of the strength found in gratitude, even amidst pain and struggle. They call us to unity, to humility, and to care for one another,  values that we hold deeply important now, just as they were then.  

As we move toward what many fondly (and sometimes frantically) call the "silly season”, I can’t help but think it is a perfect time to pause. To reflect on the blessings we too often take for granted; our families, our friendships, the gift of our community. It is a moment to look outward, to share what we have and extend kindness to those who may be struggling. A little compassion, a helping hand, or simply an open heart can mean the world to someone in need.  

As this season unfolds, I am reminded of an even greater story. Once, long ago, a baby was sent into the world, leaving behind splendor to live among us. His life was a gift. A gift resulting in a story of love, restoration, and redemption that forever changed the world. This truth is at the heart of all our celebrations, a reminder that no matter the season, hope and grace are always within reach.  

May this holiday season fill your heart with gratitude, your table with laughter, and your soul with peace as your story unfolds into the new year bringing with it your treasured memories of the past and hope for the future.