Again we arrive at the popular holiday that transcends ethnic, religious, racial and numerous other man-made divides. Thanksgiving Day is an annual reminder of the innumerable blessings we may easily take for granted throughout the year.
Ironically, in ages past, the less people had, the more thankful for it and willingness to share with others. Today in our insatiable quest for whatever things or conditions we feel will bring us happiness, we fail to recognize that happiness is found, not so much in what we possess as in wanting and appreciating whatever we have and especially those with whom we are privileged to share it.
Also ironic is the fact that the freer we become from the physical chains of human bondage, the more enslaved we become by the new masters of greed, envy, selfishness, egos and various other self-destructing attitudes and habits.
We will always experience instability and perpetual discontent while constantly comparing our accomplishments and possessions with those who have more, as no matter what we acquire, there will always be those with more. Consequently, we will inevitably seek someone else to blame for our continuous state of self-imposed slavery for it is much harder to unshackle “chains on the brain.” Such psychological shackles blind us to every kind word and deed offered by others, whether of a different or same race, religion or family. The result is continuously mounting lack of appreciation and respect for anything or anyone. This not only stunts our social, economic and spiritual growth, but also has a trickle down effect on our posterity.
The healthiest attitude one could ever acquire is acknowledgment and appreciation of all the innumerable blessings, great and small that we take for granted daily. This will in turn add up to ever increasing appreciation of their source and a perpetual attitude of gratitude.
With an attitude of gratitude one counts gains and not losses, blessings not crosses. Through an attitude of gratitude one becomes emancipated from the inevitable suppressions and depressions of life and more cognizant and appreciative of the incomparable beauty and order of nature. Also the unimaginable opportunities which constantly surround us, especially in this comparatively new nation in spite of its innumerable inequities.
Without appreciation there can be no respect. Without respect there can be no order in one’s life for disrespect breeds progressive disrespect, hatred and warring mentalities within every level of society.
All of nature respects its Creator. Only mankind, having been given the dangerous weapon of free will, chooses to disrespect his Creator and His creation, not only by not aspiring to become all one is capable of being, but by failing to encourage (and often by actually impeding) the progress of others attempting to do so.
This Thanksgiving, as we gather with family and friends around the dinner table, may we not continue to pray til God hears us, but until we hear God and His will. May we pray not for lighter burdens but for stronger backs. Especially during this season and throughout the year may we remember the charge of God through His newest messenger, Baha’u’llah.
“O ye rich ones of the earth! (whether in wealth, health, knowledge or by other means) the poor in the midst are My trust! Guard ye My trust.”
