When we think about thanksgiving, we are inclined to rush to the warm fuzzy feelings of Thanksgivings gone by, as well as a happy thought of Thanksgivings to come. I am firstly thankful that this nation has the need to be thankful. I am also reminded though the day to day challenges that this holiday does not go without its own...The following prayer appeared in St. James Stratford, CT bulletin and has settled in my heart. I share this my thanksgiving prayer with you and pray that all who are open to receiving the great gifts of God will receive them abundantly.
Let us Pray
May God bless us with discontent at easy answers,half-truths, superficial relationships, so that we will live deep within our hearts.
May God bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, abuse and exploitation of people, so that we will work for equality, justice and peace.
May God bless us with tears to shed for thise who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that we will reach out our hands to comfort them and change their pain to joy.
May God bless us with foolishness to think that we can make a difference in this world, so that we will do things which others tell us cannot be done.
If we have the courage to accept these blessings, God will bless us with happiness because we will know that we have made life better for others;
With inner peace because we will have worked to secure peace for others;
With laughter because our hearts will be light;
With friends who will share our stories and honor our dreams.
Adapted from Ruth Fox, OSB
So Let us act...
