Thanksgiving is Everyday

I had just finished officiating a wedding for two of my former students and their families, both of whom I know for many years. It's always such a pleasure for me personally to share in such “Simchas" (joyous occasions) with the families and especially with the children who grew up with me as their rabbi. 

Afterwards, at the reception, the discussion at the table focused on "catching up" with a number of people from my former congregation, whom I had not seen in years. People told me I looked good and that I seemed much happier. Yes, for me, learning to be happier is a work in process. One person wanted to know just how I managed that! I responded that I found much wisdom in the old saying, "Count your blessings." I make a concerted effort to become aware of my blessings, especially the ones that happen daily. Even if one has no Higher Power, he or she can still be aware of and thankful for their "blessings", or however they refer to such things.

I added that, we come from a tradition which recognizes at least 100 blessings a day. Not because the Creator needs our blessings, but to make us aware that those things are gifts that are given daily. Learning to be GRATEFUL, THANKFUL AND APPRECIATIVE is part of the process of learning to be happier.

The "GIVING" part of Thanksgiving is directly tied to TOV! (words, thoughts and actions which Protect Life, Preserve Life, Make Life More Functional and Increase the Quality of Life) Making sure the most vulnerable people and animals have food, clothing, shelter, A CHANCE, is not one day a year!  It is EVERY DAY! Please, enjoy your families, enjoy your food, enjoy your company, enjoy the warmth, and enjoy the season!

"THANKS" + "GIVING" = TOV!

Doing and teaching TOV and Choosing Life helps me to be happier. I'm enjoying my children, my work, my home and my life, right now, not someday! Thanksgiving is Every Day!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Rabbi Jeffrey Leynor

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