Leaves falling off the trees in earthy hues pave our walkways. The winter is steps away from kicking back into our lives, ushered by snow and cold. I had a conversation with a friend about these seasonal changes. To him it signified another season of yearning to stay in bed with a cup of hot chocolate, hibernating like a big bear.
I urged him to see the beauty of the fall season and all its blessings. The marvelous, warm, earthy colors surrounding us. Decorations and lights dress the streets and private homes, a real reason to be grateful and pleased.
Many look into the scriptures to find philosophical questions and answers. As November is the month we celebrate Thanksgiving, the appropriate one for us was Psalm 100. A song of thanks. This Psalm is short and has only five verses, but it is inspirational and packed with positive energy.
Psalm 100, A Psalm of Thanksgiving. Carefully looking into this Psalm, we see that it describes joy, singing and happiness. It teaches us that gratitude and feeling grateful is the key to delight and blessings. The Almighty wants us to be happy and so we should strive to appreciate everyone, including ourselves and our achievements.
This Thanksgiving we should remember all the blessings that make our lives meaningful. The presence of a loving family grants one hope and joy. Special thanks to special family members and friends whose unwavering love and support make our days worthy and special. Be grateful for a good friend that causes us to burst into laughter, smile and cherish these moments. Appreciate your health, the opportunity to grow and the beauty of everyday.
The constant presence of these special people in our lives, carrying their kindness in our hearts, enables us to value the beauty of the simple moments and occurrences in our lives.
Let us be grateful for unity, be reminded of the power of gratitude, embracing each moment with an open heart. Share happiness and good news with others. Join their contentment with a pure heart. Being satisfied with what we have is a cure for negativity and happiness of the community. As it says in the Ethics of the Fathers, “Who is the rich one? The one who is satisfied with his part.”
May this season be a time of reflection, appreciation, and gratitude for all we have. Wishing everyone a peaceful, fulfilling Thanksgiving!
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum PhD.
