Dear Grace Church Family,
I am writing this on Monday morning in anticipation of Thanksgiving Day on Thursday when I will be in Richmond with my husband, Joe, and some of his children and grandchildren. However, my closest extended family of sisters, nieces, nephews, sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren will all be scattered. Most will be at my sister’s house in Georgia, others will be in Florida and a niece will be in Arizona. There’s no doubt that each table will be laden with a turkey, many delicious dishes and desserts.
And yet, before any of the food is eaten, while standing around every table, my family will hold hands and go around the circle sharing something for which they are grateful. This has been our family’s tradition for generations. And as much as I enjoy savoring family favorites such as turkey and my Daddy’s recipe for cornbread dressing, sweet potato casserole, green beans, hot cranberry relish and my sister’s pecan pie, I most look forward to sharing these moments gratitude.
Over the years we’ve waited until this moment to announce big surprises such as engagements, pregnancies, and new jobs. At other times we’ve felt the sad non-presence of family members due to divorce, death, or inability to travel home for the holiday. Thus, for me, Thanksgiving is a day filled with mixed emotions. Yes, I’ll enjoy being in Richmond with Joe and my step children. And yet, I will also feel a deep pang of heart-ache and sadness not being able to be with my family.
Joy and sadness can and often do exist side by side. And in these times God meets us where we are and loves us all the more. Please know how thankful I am for you and I hope each of you have (had) a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Gratefully,
Mother Jenny+