In our moments of reflection, particularly during times of gathering, we often feel the quiet ache of absence, remembering those who are no longer with us. Yet, even in this bittersweet space, there is profound cause for thanksgiving. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, encourages us to give thanks always for all things (Ephesians 5:20). Our thankfulness is not diminished by sorrow; rather, it is enriched by the gift of having loved and been loved. We can give thanks for the laughter that still echoes in our hearts and the memories that time can never erase. These shared moments are lasting treasures, evidence of a love that transcends physical presence and continues to shape our lives.

The life of Jesus provides a powerful example of giving thanks in all circumstances, demonstrating a heart aligned with the Father’s will even amid challenge. Before performing the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me” (John 11:41). He gave thanks before the visible manifestation of the miracle, trusting in God’s power and timing. He also gave thanks before the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:11), acknowledging God’s provision even when the resources seemed meager. In these acts, Jesus showed us that gratitude is a posture of faith, an acknowledgment that God is present and active in every situation, providing both for our physical needs and the deep needs of our souls.

This perspective becomes profoundly personal for those of us who carry significant dates on our calendars. Fourteen years ago, our father/ PaPa left this world on Thanksgiving Day. While such a date could easily become a day of somber remembrance, choosing to view it as a moment of profound gratitude reshapes the narrative. We give thanks for the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the legacy of his presence in our lives. This conscious choice to infuse a potentially painful memory with thankfulness transforms the day into a beautiful tribute, ensuring his spirit lives on not in sorrow, but in the vibrant, enduring power of gratitude.

True thankfulness allows us to embrace the fullness of our human experience—the joy of presence and the pain of absence—and still recognize the hand of God at work. Let us cherish the gift of time we have together, viewing each shared memory as a blessing for which to be truly grateful. As we navigate the seasons of life, may our hearts be filled with gratitude for the enduring power of love and the promise of hope, continually giving thanks for the past that shaped us and the future that awaits, secure in the knowledge that God is good and His mercy endures forever.