It seems to me that, as the years go by, there is a greater emphasis being placed on the celebration of Halloween on October 31st. The fall colors of orange and black, the creative costuming for kids of all ages, the outdoor and indoor decorations, the candy collections that continue to grow in both variety and quantity—all this quickly fades and the majority of marketing, gifting, advertising efforts seem to quickly shift to the celebration of Christmas with less attention given to the great holiday of Thanksgiving. This day at least supersedes Black Friday, the most overwhelming shopping day of the year before Christmas. So, while we still celebrate this Day of Thanks as a national holiday, we might pause to ask “what,” and more importantly, “whom” are we giving thanks for? What and whom are we most grateful for?
Some of us continue to commemorate this day with the traditional dinner feast of a variety of homemade or market-made foods, with family and friends gathered around the table. There may even be the custom of each family member or guest sharing who or what they are thankful for.
In recalling some of the savory dishes I have enjoyed at my own Thanksgiving tables through the years, I began reflecting on what these foods have meant to me as special reminders of gratitude, especially in light of my own Franciscan spirituality as a Felician Sister.
The robust turkey symbolizes the “protein” or the main “meat” of God, my Faith Source, who is the sustenance that gives meaning to my life. The inside turkey dressing or “stuffing” as I call it, can be made in a variety of ways. It reminds me of being filled or “stuffed” with God’s never-ending love and grace, feeling as full as that big bird with God’s unique delicious recipe of love and care for me. The wishbone, to me, is a sign of God’s covenant, uniting Him with myself as well as those connected relationships with others. His circle of unity and togetherness is never broken in His eyes. He is always ready to wish healing of relationships, if I stumble and break them through my own actions.
The abundant side dishes include sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, corn, squash, cranberries, and on and on, based on our traditions. All of these remind me of God’s creations from the earth, given to us to support and nourish the health of our bodies as well as our spirits.
And of course, I cannot leave out the treasure trove of desserts, inclusive of pumpkin and pecan pie, topped with whipped cream. These bring to mind the sweetness and goodness of God’s tender kindness, blessing, and fond regard for us all.
So, wherever we spend our Day of Thanks this November, let us all be truly grateful for each other, and for the gift of our belief in God, the guiding force in our lives. Let us welcome Him to our table, ask Him to surround and bless with food those who may not have a table or a meal to share.
Maryville Retreat Center will host its Community Dinner on November 22. Please come and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with us! There is no cost to attend, although a free will offering is welcome if you wish to contribute. We, indeed, give thanks for each one of you who continues to support our mission of spiritual renewal for all! Blessings of Thanksgiving to you!
