If each of us would take the time to review his or her situation, I think that we would find much to be grateful. When there are problems -- health, financial, emotional -- we tend to focus on them. The greater the difficulties the more do we spend our time thinking and talking about them. But as we look more closely at our lives, we see that everything is not bad. We are grateful for life, for the health that we do have or had, for the family that God gave us, for the ability to love and help others, and for many more things.
I can imagine that, after such an arduous journey, the pilgrims were most grateful to God for having made it to a new land and for their lives. Rather than mulling over the hardships in their homeland and on their voyage, they found the time to give true thanks to God. The Thanksgiving holiday is a reminder for us to see the blessings that we have and to be thankful. Hopefully, we find time everyday to tell God how much we appreciate what He has done for us. In spite of pain, heartache and worry, we know that He does care for us and wants us to be happy now and forever. Knowing the Eucharist means thanksgiving, we thank Him for this greatest of all the Sacraments and the other Sacraments -- for the gift of Himself. His Sacrifice, his forgiveness and his word are among other gifts for which we are grateful.
A natural response to receiving from God is for us to give to others. It is so good to see the outpouring of gifts for the less fortunate at this time of year. May God reward you. May we continue this spirit of giving throughout the weeks and months ahead.
In behalf of Fr. Joe, Msgr. Jim and Deacon Vinney, I wish you a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING. I pray that God bless you with good health and all that you need.
Fr. Stanley
