Obviously, our national observance centers on gratitude, but have we lost sight of an important facet of the Plymouth Thanksgiving? In the New England story, the Pilgrims broke bread with the local Indians. It was an act of reconciliation (as well as a time for thankfulness.) Even if that's American myth, it is an aspect of our tradition worthy of revival.
I reprise my prayers addressing both subjects:
Happy Thanksgiving!
Artwork credit
Way, way back in the 5th grade, the first song I learned to play on my saxophone was When the Saints Go Marching In.
I was no Louis Armstrong, but his fusion of gospel and jazz must have resonated with my formative eleven year old soul. (And it was not a difficult tune to master!)
Oh, when the saints go marching in,
Oh, how I want to be in that number,
When the saints go marching in.
This past Sunday was our annual remembrance of the saints who have graced our lives. I have been blessed to have so many saints marching around me - leading, teaching, prodding and protecting. I remember them in these prayers.
