Thank you. Two simple words that when separate can be seen as two obsolete words that do not make a full statement. But when they are put together they become a distinct, full statement that has significant meaning behind it when we pause and think about what we are saying. We say the words probably dozens of times a day out of automatic response when someone hands something to us, holds the door for us, or compliments us. However, when we stop and think about all of the things that we are grateful for and thankful for, we truly begin to understand the meaning behind the words thank you.

Webster’s dictionary tells us that “thank you” is a polite expression of one’s gratitude. Being grateful for the gifts we have received, our life experiences, the friends we make, the food on our tables, and the gift of our lives, are just some of the many things we can be thankful for on a daily basis. Our Catholic faith encourages us to give thanks to God for the many gifts, visible and invisible, that he blesses us with in our lives. In his first letter to the Thessalonians St. Paul wrote: “…in everything gives thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

This Thanksgiving, I am truly thankful for the many blessings that I have in my life. The food in my fridge and cupboards, the friends and family that I have that support me no matter what and encourage me when I am feeling down, the job that I love, and this amazing community that truly feels like a family. What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving season? I challenge you to take some time and think of everything that you have to be thankful for and then give Glory and Praise to God for blessing you with these great gifts.