Lord,
(or whoever
the fuck you are)
please grant me
the presence
to be truly HERE
on this day,
in childlike awe
of all the events
that have transpired
over my life
and lifetimes
to bring me this
blessed experience.
Newfound Lake,
11/26
In the vast expanse of time and experience, a Thanksgiving prayer becomes a poignant moment to reflect on the multitude of events and circumstances that have converged to bring us to our present moment. It’s a recognition of the intricate tapestry of life, woven from the threads of our past experiences, choices, and the serendipitous nature of existence.
Acknowledging the Journey
This prayer is an acknowledgment of the journey we have traversed, through various stages of life and perhaps even lifetimes. It’s a recognition of the countless factors, both significant and seemingly trivial, that have shaped our path to this point in time.
The Presence in the Now
The request for the presence to be truly “HERE” underscores the importance of mindfulness and gratitude. It’s an invitation to fully immerse ourselves in the current moment, setting aside the distractions and preoccupations that often cloud our awareness.
Childlike Awe and Gratitude
The call to experience this moment with “childlike awe” reflects a desire to reconnect with a sense of wonder and appreciation that is often lost in the complexities of adulthood. It’s a reminder to view our experiences with fresh eyes, to appreciate the beauty and richness of life with the same unjaded curiosity and enthusiasm as a child.
The Sacredness of Experience
By referring to the day as a “blessed experience,” the prayer highlights the sacredness of the occasion. Thanksgiving, in this context, is not just a routine gathering or a customary celebration but a profound opportunity to recognize and honor the journey of life.
Embracing a Universal Spirit
The opening address to “Lord, or whoever the fuck you are” reflects a universal approach to spirituality. It acknowledges that the divine, or the guiding force of the universe, can be understood and named in countless ways. This inclusivity embraces the diversity of beliefs and experiences that make up the human tapestry.
Summary
In contemplating a Thanksgiving prayer, we reflect on the journey that has led us to this moment, embracing the present with mindfulness and childlike awe. This prayer is an expression of gratitude for the myriad events that have shaped our lives, a celebration of the sacredness of experience, and an acknowledgment of a universal spirit that connects us all.
Glossarium
- Mindfulness: The practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, aware of our thoughts and feelings without distraction or judgment.
- Childlike Awe: A state of wonder and curiosity, reminiscent of a child’s unfiltered appreciation of the world.
- Universal Spirituality: The concept that the divine or spiritual force can be understood and experienced in a variety of ways, transcending specific religious doctrines.
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
In the gathering of hearts, where stories entwine,
A prayer of Thanksgiving, a moment divine.
With gratitude, we look back, on the paths we’ve roamed,
In awe of the journey, to this moment, we’ve come.
In the presence of now, with a child’s clear sight,
We embrace each moment, in gratitude’s light.
For the tapestry of life, in its intricate weave,
In Thanksgiving, we find, in Thanksgiving, we believe.
In this sacred space, where past and present meet,
We give thanks for the journey, both bitter and sweet.
For in each step and each breath, in love’s endless flow,
We find our connection, in the heart’s warm glow.
We invite your reflections on the significance of gratitude and mindfulness in acknowledging life’s journey. How do you embrace the present moment while honoring the experiences that have shaped your path?
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