Life seems to have gotten much more complicated than it was when I was a child. I have fond recollections of the weather being cool, with maybe a little snow, a warm fire, and more food than we could possibly eat. It was family time as we gathered around a table to partake of the bounty of the Lord.

In those days, the event of the Pilgrims and Indians sharing a time of feasting and peace was not debated, and certainly not denied, as some try to tell us today. It was a time when the differences between two completely different cultures were set aside so that they could express gratitude for God’s provisions. It is an image that still resonates in my spirit today.

Perhaps the change began when we were bombarded with the attitude that “we deserve” most anything we want. I confess that I enjoy the finer things in life, but my travels have taken me to places where simply surviving another day is their greatest concern. They cannot comprehend the conveniences we take for granted. May I appeal to us all today, whether we have little or much, let’s take time to be thankful.

From our home to your home, Marlene and I pray that you have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving.