A Way In

Offerings for the Thanksgiving Holiday

Dear Friends,

As wonderful as holidays can be, we also know that they give rise to many emotions and expectations, some of which are difficult. There are years when we welcome these special days with joy and celebration, other times their arrival only highlights our feelings of sadness, loneliness or loss.

As I approach Thanksgiving this year, I am aware of how grateful I am. How much blessing I have in my life. And I am also aware of how deeply troubled our world is. I feel so shaken by the cruelty and injustice. Most days I swing between rage and grief as I witness the arrogance and destruction of these times. These feelings don’t necessarily eclipse my gratitude, but it does startle me to feel so “OK” in my own life, when our world is reeling.

Here are three offerings to take into Thanksgiving this year:

A Prayer for the Thanksgiving Table
This is a prayer composed of 10 verses from various psalms. They are meant to be read together as one prayerful offering, expressing gratitude and calling out for justice.
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Setting the Table with Compassion
A meditation that can be done in preparation for Thanksgiving or around the table with each other.
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On Thanksgiving When it is Difficult to Say, “I Am Thankful”
A piece that explores what to do when gratitude feels beyond our reach.
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Wherever we find ourselves this Thanksgiving, may the gifts we receive from earth and earth’s creatures inspire our generosity and love.

Much love,
Rabbi Yael