Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

Today I am thankful to be living in the United States of America.

I ascribe the goodness of such fortune to a living God, whom many of my fellow Americans are free to deny, berate, and even curse. While I respect a person's right to do so, I find it unfortunate that they are so willing to "bite the hand that feeds them."

Granted, not everyone sees it this way, especially if they don't acknowledge that a hand exists. However, there is a class of people - believers and unbelievers alike - who can't even see the hand due to a special darkness in their hearts.

While many will spend time tomorrow giving thanks to the Lord for what He has given them, others will sit around and complain about what they haven't been given - by anyone.

There will be laments that Social Services didn't give them enough food stamps to trade for beer. Cries of injustice will be heard that their names didn't make it on more than one charity list for Thanksgiving dinner to be provided for them free of charge. Outrage will be expressed that stores are closed and they can't get their cigarettes. "How dare those people not give me what I deserve!"

Ungratefulness is an ugly condition of the heart fostered by greed that leads to a sense of entitlement. It blinds the mind's eye to all that a person really does have. It clouds the judgment and craves selfish, self-elevated behavior. This darkness is thriving in the spoiled nation of America.

Perhaps there is no cure for the whole population. Is it possible that Abraham Lincoln wrote in vain the words he delivered to his beloved countrymen back in 1863 when he proclaimed a national day of giving thanks, not just toward men or inwardly to ourselves, but to the Creator and Provider of all things?

His humble statement in the midst of national turmoil is a powerful guideline for giving thanks still. His grateful words challenge the heart beyond self, outward to others and upward to God. His thanksgiving appeals to the personal sensibilities and integrity of all mankind. His proclamation is a challenge to let some light into the dark areas of our hearts.

Perhaps there is a cure after all.

Abraham Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow Americans - stateside, at sea, and abroad.  I thank God for you and ask His blessing on you.

God, bless America.