Thanksgiving, give thanks
given much, why deserve this …
generosity?
Being Dutch, I think that I am always standing on thin ice.
The ice is transparent and crystal clear.
While I am standing firmly, I know I am on ice and I can see through the ice to the deep water on the other side of the ice.
And maybe, the ice I am standing on is melting.
It is difficult for me to just celebrate.
I can lose myself in the moment, sure.
But at some point I will look down and think about the thin ice.
If I was anal enough, and maybe I am, I could take a yellow pad and write down everything in my life that I am thankful for.
Thankful to God for all his many gifts.
At some point, I have to look at the other side of the ledger.
I have to ask, why me?
Why do I deserve this generosity?
It is certain that nothing I have done to earn such a reward.
I cannot answer that question.
I am reminded of something that Ben Franklin wrote in a letter to a friend.
Ben wrote, “Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards, and which incorporates itself with the grapes to be changed into wine; a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy!”
Ben certainly wasn’t Dutch.
But I think he was on to something.
Much of what I am thankful for, I DO NOT deserve.
They are gifts.
Gifts from God.
Gifts from God who loves us and loves to see us happy.
I am thankful, beyond thanks, beyond words, for that.
No Haiku For You 