As we head into Thanksgiving, my mind turns to those across the sea. People truly ducking at every sound. People truly struggling to survive. Not only are they trying to make sure bullets don’t pierce them and their loved ones (if they still exist), but these people in Ukraine and in the middle east still need food and warmth and shelter and toilet trees.
As we head into Thanksgiving, my mind turns to those in history past. 1776. The United States of America signed their independence. 1863. President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed freedom for slaves forever. 1945. Hitler blamed Jews for World War 2. 2001. Twin Towers collapsed. 2023. . . .
My point is, that even though terrible things happen, it is the people’s response and action that makes the difference. So many men fought and died in their own blood so slaves could go free. Of course, we all understand that the Civil War was a mile marker of endless freedom but not the end of the fight. However, isn’t that what each and every one of us Americans must do? Preserve and fight for freedom so it’ll still be there for the next generation. And they’ll have to do the same.
In 1945, people stood against Hitler. They stood up for what’s right and for the Jews. Also, in 2001 and through Covid, emergency teams laid their lives on the line for our health. And in 2023, things have happened globally, nationally, and personally.
And now is Thanksgiving, a time to relax with family and reflect on all the wonderful (and hard) things this year. But 2023, it not done yet. Perhaps, now is also a time to see what we can do for others. Isn’t that the Christmas spirit? Sure, but let me ask: Did the heroes of history wait for Christmas to come around? Heroes see a need and go to help it.
I’m exceedingly grateful for all the heroes in my life, including the ones that have and are laying down their own lives for my country. For me. I’m also inspired to do something. To take a stand. Can we not use our gratitude to inspire us to stand for what is right? Can we not let our thanks motivate us to speak out? I’m grateful for safety and justice, so I will stand up for Ukraine and the Jews and for helpless Palestinians. I’m thankful for life, so I will speak out against abortions and against suicides. You see, when thanks is turned into action, we truly start giving. Thus, we would be thanksgiving in itself!
For what is living without giving?
Sincerely,
Michala Woodruff–Author of Escaping into Adventure
Michala Woodruff 