Child of the Universe

(Photo via Pinterest)

In my grandparent's dining room
hung an old copy of the Desiderata. 

Every year during Thanksgiving,

my grandfather would read it out loud to us. 

And at the end, he always took his glasses off

and wiped his eyes. 

Today I'd like to share it with you. 

Desiderata

"Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. 

As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy."~ Max Ehrmann, 1927.

No less than the trees and the stars! 

Happy Thanksgiving to you, Child of the Universe!

You are perfection 

and

I am so grateful for you.

Now go eat pie!

Bountiful Wishes!

Since they are now saying (as I've always said)

that gratitude is good for mind, body and soul,

Giving thanks here for:

*the many spectacular friends and family in my life,

*a wonderful and generous partner who shares my everyday world,

*the many true blessings I've been bestowed

*the gift of past, present and future
*the colors of each season

*and you!

What are you thankful for?

Wishing all of you a most bountiful Thanksgiving! 

(Photograph copyright: Kirsten Steen)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Frequently in our neighborhood, a 'gaggle' of turkeys

looks up as we pass by. (I always wonder what they're thinking.)

Since having my Native American Totem Animals read to me recently,

I now wonder what's happening in my life (what I'm thinking) when I see them

and what their visitation might symbolize.

As Totem Animals, the Turkey symbolizes Generosity, Abundance,

Fertility, Awareness, LifeGiving and Sharing.

They are a reminder to count our blessings!

And this holiday, I am mindful of the many blessings life offers.

This world is incredibly generous, abundant and fertile beyond belief

when we remember to be aware of the lifegiving sources around us

and share them with others.

And while I am making my list of blessings,

know that you are on that list!

Wishing all a truly Blessed Thanksgiving!

(Vintage Postcard courtesy of The Graphics Fairy)