It's all packed away now, neatly stowed in various spots around the house. In the fridge, small amounts of roasted turkey, drizzled with what gravy was left sit next to containers of carrots, roasted Brussel sprouts and homemade cranberry sauce, enough for supper tomorrow evening. Like so many other special meals, days of preparation are often consumed in a less time than it took to peel the potatoes.
The everyday kitchen table gained a new level of respectability under the cover of linen tablecloths. Received nearly half a century ago as wedding gifts from family in Germany, they're almost as pristine white as when they first graced our home, testament to the power of bleach. They live in the linen closet.
Costly china, glass and crystal serving bowels as well as silverware that actually matches have been hand-washed and stored away. I don't use them often but each piece is cause for remembering: cutlery from a dear sister-in-law; Royal Doulton china, covered in fall leaves, from a friend; crystal and glass pieces from Mom. All memory-filled and reasons for giving thanks.
Then there was the Sunday sermons that admonished us to cultivate an appreciation for the good things we enjoy. My pastor's words are welcome, wise and sincere. Remembering to cultivate a daily attitude of thanksgiving is just that, however, a daily exercise in focusing on that which is praiseworthy, often in spite of circumstances devoid of any reason for celebration. In yesterday's church bulletin I read: "a heart of gratitude releases true victory and freedom; a thankful heart releases true healing."
"Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name, make known among the nations what He has done. Sing to Him, sing praise to Him; tell of all His wonderful acts….Look to the Lord and His strength, seek His face always." (1 Chronicles 16:8-11)
