by Michael Wilhite
Holidays this season focus much of our attention on recognizing and celebrating all that we should appreciate in our lives. I need to befriend an historian or anthropologist who could explain whether this is simply coincidence or predicted? Do their origins come from appreciation of the bountiful fall harvest in ancient agricultural societies? Did the dwindling sunlight and increasing darkness create the pause to reflect on the joys of our life? Did hunkering down together to escape falling temperatures help them appreciate the warmth and comfort of one another?
Our family’s time living in India solidified our cultural giving thanks traditions. Diwali has become the jump start to our parade of holidays. The Diwali celebration is about pure joy in the richness of all that we have and the optimism about what we hope for the future. We also enjoyed the universal connection among our expat friends to embrace our unique North American holidays of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving literally reminds us to count our blessings through a decadent feast of togetherness. Of course, as we move into December, we have a litany of celebrations from Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa that each help us celebrate the appreciation we have for each other.
This time last year, many of our holiday traditions were paused. Concerns for ourselves and others guided us to sacrifice celebrations for safety. Mostly, our typical gatherings with friends and family were trimmed or virtualized to compensate for the pandemic. While we are learning to exist in a world with COVID, many of us are giddy about the opportunity to return to some of our celebrations with loved ones. This year, I am finding that the particulars of the occasions matter little compared to the absolute joy of connecting with the most important people in my life.
When I thought about giving thanks in relation to our HUUC community this year, I immediately recalled my reflection on why I have chosen to serve the church. On so many occasions, I feel the pure gratitude that I have for our Heritage community. This includes the recognition of Heritage as a supportive and safe place filled with love and acceptance. I can also see the passion that we share to help make this world a better place for everyone. Most importantly, I appreciate the honest and genuine sharing of ideas and feelings that helps me grow spiritually.
This season of the year is a reminder for all of us to take stock of our blessings and the precious people in our lives. I am so thankful that I can count our Heritage community in my blessings. The joy that this special community of people in this world creates makes me want to give thanks all year round.
December 2021.
