By Ralphine Major

In the midst of fall’s beautiful leaves appeared a glimpse of Christmas colors. The image was striking. The red and green seemed quite appropriate as we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. After all, the festive day of parades and gatherings on the fourth Thursday of November ushers in the long-awaited Christmas season.

With the COVID crisis of 2020 behind us, 2021 has brought some improved conditions. Though the pandemic still weighs heavy on the minds of many, it is unbelievable that our nation’s day of Thanksgiving is upon us. This year, it seems that nearly every day in November is a “Black Friday,” not just the day after Thanksgiving. Many major retailers will be closed on Thanksgiving, a new trend that started with last year’s COVID crisis. The pandemic seems to have brought with it a new sense of thankfulness in our country. Things we once took for granted seem more treasured, like spending time with loved ones and enjoying simple pleasures of daily life. After the loss of 13 brave Americans in Afghanistan, we have been reminded again how thankful we should be for our liberties. For food, clothing, and shelter; jobs and homes; beautiful sunrises and the very air we breathe, may we express our thankfulness every day to our Creator, the giver of life and all good things. Have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving!

Words of Faith: “Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also.” Psalm 95:2-4 (KJV).