A Thanksgiving Blessing.
This article is part of Finding the Words, a newsletter that delivers practical insights on the day’s issues.
On my office wall hangs a photo taken just moments after I gave birth to my daughter, Kate. The photo reads "Welcome Kate!" and is signed by former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley, who happened to be at an event with my dear friend and mentor Don Foley on the evening of Kate's birth. Hearing news of Kate's arrival, Don scurried to print the photo that had been texted to him just hours earlier, before somehow convincing Governor O'Malley to sign it.
In the photo, I am holding her oh-so-close, as Kate, less than an hour on this planet, gives a little smile. It's one of my most cherished photos, and a daily reminder of life's many blessings.
In this season of thanks and giving, I've been recounting many little moments, like that one, that speak to the wondrous kindness of people and how often we show up for one another, just when we need it most.
Particularly this year.
There have been moments that broke our hearts and moments that helped mend them.
Complex challenges, and little lifts of joy.
There have been extraordinary people who entered our lives, and those whose absence remains ever-present.
But perhaps the most meaningful moments to recount are those where our paths crossed, and we journeyed, however briefly, together.
There has been very little easy about this year, but much that has felt certain.
People ready and willing to show up for each other.
Remarkable human kindness in the face of unthinkable challenges.
A deepened desire to work across differences and around barriers.
A commitment to care for and protect what we most hold dear.
And when all else feels uncertain, a good hug and some kind words still go a long way.
As I sneak another glance at that first photo of Kate—and consider how I can keep holding her as closely as I did then—I'm reminded of a blessing rooted in the words of Swiss poet Henri Frédéric Amiel, and shared recently by the very special Rev. Catherine Manhardt of St. James Episcopal Church:
Life is short,
and we do not have much time
to gladden the hearts of those who
make the journey with us.
So be swift to love,
and make haste to be kind.
Indeed, life is short. And perhaps the most meaningful work any of us can do is to gladden the hearts of those who journey alongside us.
So, in this season of gratitude, and for however our paths have crossed this year, I thank you. In one way (or more), you've gladdened my heart, and I hope to have done the same for you.
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