Wow. What a year. Between politics and Covid-19, failures in the relationship between law enforcement and communities, economic calamity for far too many, and the underlying sense that America’s fabric is torn, we now come to the time of year reserved for joyous celebrations of family and friends. The time for trees and tinsel and bells and lights.
Somehow though it all feels a bit different doesn’t it? The air does not seem to support the carols and the lists bound for the North Pole. The commercials where people give each other bow adorned luxury cars seem particularly tone-dead when so many have been lost and so many more struggle for breath or food.
But maybe that is what is about. Thanksgiving seems to mean more when have reason to be grateful for the basics. The religious holidays ring more true when we can identify more completely with the possibility of a new birth and, ultimately, a resurrection. The simple act of gratitude takes on a new meaning when the events of this year have so clearly reminded us of just what our lives are for and what they are worth.
Maybe even the purpose of our nation can be illuminated by the trials of our current political season. What was this country founded to be? When have we been at our best, or our worst. And what role does each of us have to play in writing and living the answers today— for our time and those to come?
So here we all are. Together whether we want to be or not. Facing Covid-Christmas 2020 and so many other difficult challenges right along beside. It is going to be hard and it may not be easier for awhile. But I do think there is cause for hope, maybe even celebration in ohr collective ability to know love and hope. To acknowledge our shared history even though we do not have a shared perspective. To accept the gift of still being here.
In November 2020, that is no small gift at all.
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