Good afternoon, Chaverim,
On this holiday dedicated to giving thanks, I found this quote to be particularly meaningful…
Here is today’s Gratitude Thought in the Middle of a Pandemic:
“While expressing gratitude seems innocent enough, it is a revolutionary idea. In a consumer society, contentment is a radical proposition.”
Robin Wall Kimmerer
In our “consumer society”, every medium we have heard or seen over the last few weeks has bombarded us with ads for “Black Friday Deals” on things we simply CANNOT live without! But this year, being what it has been at my house, I find that I am just so grateful that Sam and I, and our immediate families, are all here, alive, safe and whole, that all of the ads coming at me are simply falling flat. I am “content”, acutely aware that I already have all that I need (including enough leftovers in my refrigerator to feed us for days!), and how very blessed I am despite all of the challenges we have faced or may yet face.
And, I have to admit, this does feel a bit “radical” in the sense that it is so far out of the American main stream, that relentless push/pull toward endless consumption that feels especially intense at this season and at this moment in time when those who have something to sell are “making up for lost time”. And, I say this with humility, knowing this has not always been so for me, and hoping that it will remain so as I work to be grateful for, and appreciate, each any every day I am given and all that I already so lucky to have.
Expressing gratitude and giving thanks for what we already can help us to bring the wisdom of our ancestors into our daily lives: “Who is rich? One who is happy with his (her/their) lot. (Pirkei Avot)”. This feels like a “revolutionary” idea and an effort that I believe is well worth making.
Wishing you gratitude and contentment on this day of giving thanks and every day!
Shabbat Shalom to all,
Marci
