As Thanksgiving approaches, I’ve been thinking about gratitude. I’m especially glad for the opportunity to express thanks for the good in my life and in that of family and friends.
Amid the relentlessly bad news we hear every day, whether the painfully slow pace of the economic recovery, wanton acts of brutality or the negative rhetoric of politics, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and overlook the good. This is not to say that we should ignore problems that need addressing; just that, as we work to resolve these problems, it’s important to acknowledge the positive as well.
Why is gratitude so important? To me, giving thanks is an expression of joy! When we thank someone for a good deed, we’re both expressing and giving joy to that person. It dissolves hurt feelings and resentments. Giving thanks brings us closer, creates bonds of affection and is the impetus for further good.
Good is all around us, from the beauty of a rainbow to the unadulterated joy of a young child discovering something new! I’m reminded of a quote from Mary Baker Eddy, the founder of Christian Science, who wrote: “In the Saxon and twenty other tongues good is the term for God.†[Science and Health With Key to the Scriptures, p. 286.]
To me, being thankful is humbly acknowledging the presence of God and God as the source of all good.
Jeff Higgins
Reading Room Librarian
Tenth Church of Christ, Scientist
1133 S. Bundy Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 820-2014
The Christian Science Church in Brentwood has a Thanksgiving Service which is held on Thanksgiving Day, November 25th at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
