Like many families with grown children, Thanksgiving and Christmas are celebrated with Sam and me on alternate years. I’ve never minded this yearly pattern. Why? Well, one reason is because, in marriage, my children chose so well. And their in-laws are loving and gracious and generous, and times we’ve been able to visit with them have been a pleasure. It is one of the many things for which I’m giving thanks during this season.
Plus, I suffer from severe Turkey Preparation Anxiety. Therefore, on the years when no turkey is required (dare I say it—we might go out to eat) or only a small (as in “small”), manageable turkey, there is a sense of reprieve. My family need not know.
It has been several years since I last shared the following post—now with a few tweaks and updates. Blessings, dear readers, on your Thanksgiving tables.
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How long since that first Thanksgiving? 402 years. Wow. Just think of all those calories.
This holiday is uniquely American in its foods and traditions. And what is its hallmark? Why, family, of course.
So here are a few things to think about as you sit at the table surrounded by the people you love. Or maybe just, shall we say, tolerate.
- Family is a Divine construct. It was conceived by God, designed by God, and, indeed, commanded by God. Go forth and multiply. Adam and Eve decided to obey this time, got busy, and began to do just that.
- Strife in families has been present from the beginning. This is an unfortunate (i.e. terrible) fact. The enemy has always had the family in his crosshairs. Why? He understands the power of blood and love.
- Family is the incubator of character. Here children should learn how to live, how to properly conduct themselves with other human beings. The family unit is meant to be the foundation of a civil society. More importantly, it is a type of the Church in the loving care of its members—the meaning of “is” here, I confess, is hopeful.
- That being said, it should also be a place where we learn how to resolve our differences without killing each other in the field. Our history together and our regard for one another ought to go a long way toward smoothing the rough patches. When these things are not enough, then we can establish firm, healthy boundaries without a blunt instrument.
“Should” and “ought to” are kind of utopian, you say? Well, maybe. One of the problems, as I see it, is that too many families are birthed with no goal in mind. When this is the case, kids with a wonky attitude are pretty much guaranteed. When they grow up and end up across from you at the Thanksgiving table, all your gifts of grace will then be called forth. Hopefully. And you will end the day having been tested and not found wanting. Hopefully.
I pray, dear readers, that your celebration will be richly blessed:
- that laughter will be the music of your day
- that the healing power of thanksgiving will be a balm for every sore spirit
- that good memories will fill the hearts of everyone at your table
I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 12:6