Rabbi's Blog

Shalom all,

As we approach Thanksgiving, we are called to cultivate our gratitude. Yes, there is brokenness in the world in need of repair. Yes, we all have opportunities for growth and areas of concern.

So, how do we cultivate gratitude in a landscape of brokenness, lack, and concern? Start from the bottom up with 3 simple steps.

Step 1: Appreciate life.

If you are reading this email, it means that you are alive and conscious. That’s the most fundamental reason to experience gratitude and thank God. In Psalm 115, a song of Hallel, we sing “The dead cannot praise God, nor those who descend to the eternal slumber. Only we can praise God and we shall  continue to praise forever!” Life is a blessing. Appreciate it!

Step 2: Appreciate resources.

If you will be eating a Thanksgiving meal, realize that you are blessed with the resources to sustain your body and gladden your soul. Many people on earth – past, present, and future – lack the resources to sustain their bodies. Resources are a blessing. Appreciate them and share them!

Step 3: Appreciate people.  

One of our most basic human needs is to love and be loved. I pray that there are people in your life who care for you and love you. Connect with them and reciprocate their loving-kindness with joyful appreciation. Appreciate love!

Let’s give thanks to each other. Let’s give thanks to God.

Happy GivingThanks.

Blessings and love,
Rabbi Teller