2nd Thanksgiving: November 24 -30

Some people call it Black Friday but I call it 2nd Thanksgiving and it is my favorite holiday of the year. Sure, I love 1st Thanksgiving too. Jaden always makes sweet potato casserole. Patrick especially enjoys the pumpkin pie. Taniya occasionally makes macaroni and cheese (without breadcrumbs.) And I look forward to turkey sandwiches after the main course has been eaten. This year, we're celebrating at Patrick's brother's home with a house full of loved ones.

The next day, we do it all over again with a house full of friends at the beach. How fortunate am I? One day is not enough to give thanks for all the wonderful people in my life. I am doubly blessed. Actually, I am 365 times blessed. Mindfulness helps me to remember gratitude every day of the year. Promise me you'll make time this week to celebrate the people who fill your life with love. Thank you for sharing mindfulness with me week after week.

Practice

Patrick, my husband, is frequently called upon to say grace when family and friends gather around our table. One of his favorite prayers is based on the words of Henri Frederic Amiel. The bolded line is Patrick's addition. Feel free to borrow it for your holiday meal.

Life is short,

And we do not have much time

to gladden the hearts of those who

make the journey with us.

So… be swift to love,

and make haste to be kind.

And the blessing of God,

who made us,

who loves us,

and who travels with us,

be upon this table and all those who surround it

and be with you now and forever.