By MAGGIE ISHINO
I was asked by Editor Gwen to write an article for Maggie’s Meow. Although I had a few articles prepared for publication since Thanksgiving is almost here, I felt I should write an article on being thankful.
Thanksgiving Day is observed on the last Thursday of November because of President Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1853. (Google)
As I indicated in the Aug. 22, 2013 issue of The Rafu Shimpo entitled “Feb. 19, 2013,” it was the beginning of the most infernal experience I have ever encountered, but there still was much to be thankful for.
I will not go into detail of the article written, but will write about thoughts of being thankful. I firmly believe that God has planned our life from birth to death. He has a reason for everything that happens along the road of life. Those who don’t believe, remember the true meaning of Christmas and Easter.
I am thankful that through the grace of God, I am able to work by taking three buses to get to the office, walk but with the use of a cane, and I can drive. I am able to do all the necessary things of life for survival.
I do not have a family of my own, that is to say a husband and children, but I am blessed with true friends who care and love me. I am thankful for the wonderful family, Gwen, the editor, and my co-workers, who are always there for me and assist me workwise and do personal favors for me.
I laughed when my dear friend, a minister’s wife, told me this story that I wish to share with you:
At one Thanksgiving dinner, there were FOUR ministers seated around the table. (Her husband, her brother-in-law, her father and her father-in-law). Guess who gave the Thanksgiving prayer. Yes, you’re right. My friend gave the prayer.
When one suffers, one wonders, “Why me?” But always remember there is ALWAYS someone worse off than you. Be grateful and thankful for each day. Remember God created everything not all at once, but one day at a time. It took Him six days. We should be thankful for each day, good or bad, and bless God for His wonderful provisions He has given us.
My prayer is “Thank you, God, for all your blessings.”
HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Amen with gratitude.
—
Maggie Ishino is a Rafu typist. Opinions expressed in this column are not necessarily those of The Rafu Shimpo.