As we observe this Thanksgiving Weekend I was moved to look through quotes from the Thanksgiving proclamations of United States presidents. It was interesting and informative. First of all to see the emphasis of our earliest presidents on gratitude to almighty God. For instance, President George Washington said, “…it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor…” Today that would seem to be a tall order for any country. It is however no less true today than it was in 1789, 233 years ago.
In 1863, in the midst of the darkness covering our country called the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln said “The gracious gifts of the Most High God…should solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people.” Wouldn’t it be something if we could at least agree on that. Some might point to atheists and such as the reason this doesn’t happen, but it would seem the neglect of people of faith has at least as much to do with our lack of thanksgiving even on the day set aside for it.
President Ronald Reagan said “Let us keep this Thanksgiving Day sacred. Let us Thank God for the Bounty and Goodness of our Nation. And as a measure of our gratitude, let us rededicate ourselves to the preservation of this: the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Not so much an observation of duty as in the previous two quotes, but more of an invitation to join him in giving thanks to almighty God. Maybe an invitation we could all extend to our brothers and sisters.
However, in my mind, the best quote of the bunch came from President John F. Kennedy, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” Imagine that! Living a life of gratitude to God. Indeed, following the revelation provided in Sacred Scripture, we recognize that this life of gratitude is shown first to God, but then also to one another – benefactor and debtor alike. Each play their part in revealing to us the ins and outs, the many crossing paths which weave a fabric of gratitude in our Church, in our country, and in all parts of society.
In my personal letter I have given thanks to all of you. Know that I thank God for you and am eminently aware of what a blessings He has bestowed on me through you – saints and sinners alike.
Happy Thanksgiving, each and every one!
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