The Truth of Giving Thanks - That's the Scratch!

Well, the season of Thanksgiving has arrived. Too often, though, we only think of the first part of that word—thanks. And while it is extremely important to give thanks for the things we have, there is also another part of that word—giving.

There are many people out there who don't have things to be thankful for. Many people have lost their jobs or homes—or even loved ones. This is a harsh world we live in where so many horrible things are happening to so many individuals. And too often we turn a blind eye to their plight in the hopes it will just go away or become someone else’s problem. But the reality is we are all in this together.

At this time of year, we should all be willing to give a little more of ourselves. I am not talking about giving expensive gifts. No, I speak of the gifts that are truly priceless. I speak of giving of ourselves to help each other through.

We must not forget those out there who have no one to celebrate with. Those whose lives have been hardest hit by life’s difficulties. We all go through times in our lives that cause us to have to rely on others for help. There is no shame in this. In fact, if you have someone in your life that is able to lend a hand then you truly are blessed.

And if you are presented with the opportunity and the privilege to lend a hand, then you too are being blessed with a chance to give of yourself in the most meaningful of ways. Even the pilgrims went through difficult times, and if it were not for the Native Americans helping them, we would not be celebrating the season of thanksgiving.

So it is in that spirit that this season I ask you to give of yourselves. Donate non-perishable items to your local food pantries, warm winter clothing to the homeless or take the time to work in a soup kitchen feeding those less fortunate than you. It is giving from the heart that means more than the most expensive gifts.

Do not miss an opportunity to touch someone’s life. Because it is a gift to truly be thankful for. If you do not feel that you have the time to lend a hand then I encourage you to find a worthwhile charity to help. And if you need ideas on how to get involved and see what you can do to help, then please check out this website www.FeedingAmerica.org  This is a wonderful organization that is doing its part to help people all across America.

Be thankful for what you have and for opportunities given to you to help others, because that is the true meaning of giving thanks. Sharing your blessings with others blesses you in turn.

May each of you have a Happy Thanksgiving.

And that’s the scratch!

C.H. Ickens

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