Thanksgiving

Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds.

~Theodore Roosevelt


Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, a day where Americans get together with family and gorge themselves on too much food (it is wonderful, fried turkey especially) and too much football (is there such a thing), and too much of everything. People reflect on what path their life is taking and give thanks for the things that they have and for the people who are in their lives. I have a different perspective on Thanksgiving and my opinion was solidified today while I was watching the evening news.

The main story was about a homeless family that was savagely beaten by a gang, for no reason whatsoever, and how they were trying to recover from that beating. Many people from the community saw the newscast yesterday and offered help in the form of money and food for the family. The mother was interviewed and she said that despite her bad fortune, she and her family were thankful that they had each other at Thanksgiving.

My perspective about Thanksgiving is in line with my previous expression concerning the Projection of Self on the world. I think that if you are truly successful in the world you shouldn't have things you are thankful for, because you have actively worked to achieve the status in your life that exists. If you are thankful for anything, it should be that you have the clarity of self to know what your path is, and the initiative and drive to accomplish it. The true measure of your success on Thanksgiving should be how many people are giving thanks to you for all of your positive effect on the world around you.

I felt anger when I watched those homeless people on the news. Partially because they were beaten by evil, horrible people, but mostly because I had done nothing to help prevent them from being in that situation. The resources at my disposal would make it possible to at least try to help homeless people, but I have failed to establish and execute a plan to do so. Their pain is partially due to my failure and yours to reach out and help those that are in need. Our failure to project our power on those less fortunate than us is truly a tragedy, and one that is easily remedied.

When you are with your family this weekend, and your belly is full, and you feel love in your heart, make a promise. Promise that during this holiday season you will help one person who is without hope. Help one person who is invisible. Help one person who needs something to give thanks for.

I promise, I will.