On: Thanksgiving

On:  Thanksgiving
Colleen Rogers

Spent a lovely Thanksgiving Holiday with my beloved sister and her family today.  In all that is reflective of the season, I noted these:

The crowning of our shares 

It is the tradition of most American families to showcase the offerings of the most dexterous chefs on this day.  The auntie who makes the best pie, the grandmother who rises the best biscuits, the father whose turkey preparation is legendary.  We send in our foodie PhD's, who gladly prep the best of each creation so that we may divide and share with gratitude. 

The diversity of our offerings 

It is not imperative that we remain rigid with our menu 
d' juor.  We can adapt and personalize our anticipated delights by adding tamales or macaroni and cheese if these are indicative of our family's most beloved flavors.  Our dinner spirits the uniqueness of our cultures, but can be shared with anyone invited.  
    
The opulence of our consumption

It is recognized on this day that abundance and  consumption will be featured center stage.  We know that with each blessing of which we partake, and in our heavy consumption, there has been hard work to inspire our feast.

The defiance of our selection

It is expected that some of us will not indulge.  We have a right to deny or refute this celebration to honor our own cultural beliefs or dietary concerns.  We can hold firm against temptation, and are not to be condemned for this stance by those also seated at the table.

The unification of our multiplicity

It is, through our connections this day, apparent that family members and friends come to the table bringing different ages, genders, backgrounds, and sensitivities.  We honor each other and are unified with respect and acceptance. Throughout the toasts, stories, memories, and laughter we share and weave our experiences until our plates are cleared.

And so, it is with America this day and always...

We... 

--recognize the service of our best
--respect the diversity of our cultural gifts
--honor blessings achieved through hard work
--acknowledge our right to peacefully defy
--attempt to unify in spite of our differences

Image from:

http://www.kiddyhouse.com/Thanksgiving/