Our Canadian Thanksgiving has come and gone. The leftover turkey is eaten up. The family gatherings are a fading memory. For those of us with kids, Halloween preparations are underway. Before we know it we’ll be buckling down for Christmas preparations. Time just has a way of flying by. If we don’t stop once in a while to take time to reflect on the moment, we could find ourselves just going from one thing to the next without even noticing the beauty that life has to offer us.
Backing up to Thanksgiving, this year my wife reminded me of how important it was to stop and take note of the little things we are thankful for. For me my list included that hot cup of tea in the mornings, the mystery novel that I’m reading, the beautiful fall colours all around me, the feeling of exhilaration I get when riding my e-bike to work, listening to my new record through my earphones, a very spicy curry, and taking in a great movie.
I’m also thankful for my job. Even though in all five of our shelters we see so many men and women come through our doors every day that have no homes, my relationships with them are often a source of joy and inspiration to me that bring me so much gratitude. This year, my thanksgiving season is lasting just a little bit longer.
O God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
Bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.
Amen.
–Samuel F. Pugh