As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time for gratitude
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Maya Angelou wrote “Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer. And let faith be the bridge you build to overcome evil and welcome good.”
As this Thanksgiving approaches amid the frustration, fear and distrust of our recent election, I can’t help but think about the idea that Thanksgiving originated with the breaking of bread between white immigrants and nonwhite, native peoples who welcomed and helped the newcomers. It seems like a good time to remember that every single person in this country, unless you are Native American, has immigrant ancestors.
It also seems like a good time to be grateful for one another. No matter our color, gender, race, sexual orientation or political party affiliation, it is time to remember that Jesus taught us to love one another. The best way we can show that appreciation is to listen to one another.
And to begin listening with our hearts, instead of our arguments.
Our hearts would tell us that people are hurting on both sides of this story, and our faith would have us act with compassion to understand those hurts and to do something about them. Standing on a bridge of faith would remind us that racism, homophobia, religious intolerance and misogyny are WRONG. Walking across that bridge would give us the courage to speak out in support of any people who are being targeted or maligned because of who they are.
Spirit calls us to stand in truth and to move forward in faith. My faith tells me that we are always moving in an upward and outward expansion of consciousness. Therefore, everything that is happening right now must be a part of that expansion. My faith also tells me that difficulties often arise when there is healing that is ready to be revealed. I believe that God/Spirt/Love is all there is. Period.
That faith does not change because the outward circumstances of life change. If that were true it would not be faith, it would just be an idea. We, the light bringers, the people of the emerging church, those who know and understand that we are ONE, must anchor in our faith and be willing to stand up for truth. It may require us to take some risks.
But first it requires us to listen with our hearts and not our arguments.
May you be moved to reach across the table a table this Thanksgiving and listen. May we all give thanks that we live in an amazing country, full of diversity and acceptance. May we love one another.
Happy Thanksgiving. May the holiday season bring you much to be thankful for.
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– Rev. Barbara Bue is the Sr. Minister and Spiritual Director of New Thought Northern Colorado Center for Spiritual Living.