Thanksgiving Mindfulness

Every day can provide an opportunity to pause, 
to embrace what brings joy, to share abundance, to do what warms the hearts of others, and to nourish your soul.
– Roni Beth Tower

This coming Thursday, the annual “Unity in the Community Thanksgiving Spectacular” will be celebrated in Tustin California.  This event is sponsored by Operation Warm Wishes, a 501c3 Organization founded by TyRon Jackson, a community activist who has a passion for helping those in need and making a positive difference in the  world.  The event is free to the public and is staffed by volunteers from across Southern California.

Attendees are provided with a  3-course Thanksgiving dinner, with all the trimmings.  Live music plays in the background and a craft area provides numerous activities for children.  Participants are also encouraged to take advantage of other amenities including haircuts, donated clothing , food bags to-go.  Jackson says it is something he looks forward to all year because of the joy it brings to people of all ages and backgrounds.  “Thanksgiving is a time to remember those less fortunate, the needy, the forgotten and the homeless.  It’s also a time to be with family, to remember the year that has passed and to be thankful for what we have been given.

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, let’s take time to be mindful; to pause, be fully present, and consider what this holiday means.  It is a time to give thanks for the abundance and joy in our lives, it is a time to give thanks for family and friends, it is a time to be grateful. It can also be a time that we commit to helping those who have not been as fortunate or blessed.  As the holidays approach, what can each of us do to help those who are less fortunate, or experiencing pain and loss?  Perhaps answering and acting on that question will let us discover the true holiday spirit.

Happy Thanksgiving !