Thanksgiving

image credit: dawnzy

As we approach the day of Thanksgiving celebrations in the US, I focus my attention on the theme of gratitude. I have so much to be grateful for and I am reminded of the central place that the practice of gratitude has in spirituality. In eastern religions, practitioners begin their day with prayers of gratitude for the blessings in their lives, and in the Native American culture, all ceremonies begin with prayers of gratitude to mother earth, father sky, the four directions  and to all relations, sentient and insentient. These prayers of thanks for all things that sustain our daily lives, is an acknowledgment and appreciation of the blessings and good fortune that we have received. In recognizing these gifts we build our trust in the abundance of the earth and live with confidence that we will always be taken care of. As we practice gratitude, our hearts open, making space for attracting more grace into our lives and our joy increases. As our joy increases, we are more compassionate with ourselves and with others.The purpose of the spiritual healing journey is to live with joy and a compassionate benevolence, to open to the freedom that such an outlook brings, no matter what tribulations unfold in our lives. The path to such freedom is the practice of gratitude on a daily basis

We can begin with practicing being grateful for the things that  we take for granted in life: trees, sunshine, rain, and the food that sustains us. When we remember to be grateful, we are less likely to complain and to be depressed for we are aware of how rich and full our life is. We count our blessings and honor our happiness. When we honor ourselves we access that fountain of inner joy and are more willing and able to give with an open heart to others.

Thanksgiving Prayer, Native American

We return thanks to our mother, the earth,
which sustains us.
We return thanks to the rivers and streams,
which supply us with water.
We return thanks to all herbs,
which furnish medicines for the cure of our diseases.
We return thanks to the moon and stars,
which have given to us their light
when the sun was gone.
We return thanks to the sun,
that has looked upon the earth with a beneficent eye.
Lastly, we return thanks to the Great Spirit,
in Whom is embodied all goodness,
and Who directs all things for the good of Her children.
- Iroquois Prayer, adapted

I will be away for a while visiting with the folks across the border, celebrating Thanksgiving. A hearty and happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends and a heart full of gratitude to all of you out there for your generous comments, your love and your support for me, a fledgling blogger. Thank you!