Give-In-Thanks

Thanksgiving is usually to most people about the food & 
"Black Friday." While this has become part of the tradition. 
Something is missing. And that is how to be grateful and 
appreciate the small things in life. 

I spent most of the Thanksgiving day crying. Remembering my 
family that has past away. Watching my US Coast Guard
graduation video again for the first time since 2004. Only 
TWO other people have ever seen this video until now.

I watched the veterans special on CNN & then watched
Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas. It reminded me of my mother. 
We would sing along and cry thinking about how precious life is 
and that living and being with others is what makes people truly
thankful. To have a chance to make a difference in someone's life. 
This is what "giving-in-thanks" should be about. But frankly too 
many people have forgotten tradition, family, honor, respect, and 
various other core values that make us what we call the human race. 

You see, humanity isn't always about wars and pestilence. In these
times of a bad economy something usually happens within the 
Christian faith community. They stand up and make a difference.
Seeing the why and hows to be thankful and assisting others in need.

This isn't a once a year event. It should happen everyday. Thanksgiving 
is a gift to all of us to not only give to ourselves with food & gifts, 
but to give to others. To show that we care. Love is the answer to 
anything. Forgiveness & peace can be achieved. 

Christians, I am speaking to you! It is time to wake up and move.
No more just sitting around a table and eating. Take time to actually 
say why you are thankful. Then take another giant step and say to 
someone else why they make a difference in not only your life but 
others as well.

Everyone matters and it all counts. As a blessing you can gift to 
yourself, others and honoring Jesus Christ.

So I will leave you with the lyrics to a song in Emmet Otter's 
Jug Band Christmas.

In Our World/Brothers*

We're closer now than ever before
(How much alike we are; perhaps we're long lost brothers)
There's love in our world and we're showing it more
(We even think the same; you know there may be others)

Our world says, "Welcome, stranger"
Everybody's a friend
(We can always use a friend)
Favorite stories don't end
(Welcome, brother)
In our world

Some say our world is getting too small
(So many things to learn, but we'll enjoy each lesson)
I say, with kindness, there's room for us all
(Problems don't worry us when half the fun is guessing)

Our world is always changing
Everyday's a surprise
(Live a lifetime of surprise)
Love can open your eyes
(Brother, look around)
In our world

When night lays sad upon you
Go watch a simple sunrise
(See wonder in your eyes)
Love can open your eyes
(Welcome, brother)
To our world