Entering the Grateful Month

I am so glad I have an office with a window. Not only with a window, but with a window two stories up -- so I can look at "leaf-level" toward the trees on our church property and across the street at the park.

These last days of October have been especially beautiful - so many of them sunny and colorful - and I am trying to savor some moments every day. For when November comes - and it is coming very soon - we can count on much of the color, and more of the warmth, disappearing.

And yet November has treasures if its own. It is a month for gratitude, beginning with All Saints Day on the 1st, a day to thank God for those people whose human lives, lived before us, have influenced us in faith, love, and integrity; continuing with Veterans' Day, a day to honor those who put themselves in harm's way to protect others; and Thanksgiving Day, of course, a time to remember the brave hospitality of Native Americans who helped Pilgrims adapt to life in this part of the world and the resulting feast of food and friendship. And then, near the end of the month, November opens the door to Advent, a season of awe and thankfulness for the gift of Immanuel - God with us.

As the days darken, and the colors fade, I hope to still savor some moments every day - moments of gratitude for the spectacular, and the ordinary, gifts we share.