Giving Thanks

Blessed are You Adonai our God, Sovereign of the Universe, 

who gives strength to the weary.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the Universe,

who removes sleep from the eyes, slumber from the eyelids.

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the Universe, 

who has made me free.

The words above are three blessings located in the middle of a morning prayer entitled Nisim b’Chol Yom (our daily miracles).  Hundreds of years ago, these blessings were recited as a person woke up and began to prepare for the day.  Our ancestors recited a blessing when they opened their eyes, when they took their first step, and when they put on their clothes.  Over time, these prayers became a fixture in the early part of the morning service.  The three blessings above are located amongst a dozen others which are recited as a pseudo-mantra.  The purpose of these morning blessings is simple: to thank the Holy One for all of the miracles in our lives. 

As we approach this season of Thanksgiving, it seems appropriate to reflect upon the bounty that surround us.  Many of us will gather in a few days around our holiday tables to carve the turkey, eat some pumpkin pie, and gobble down the cranberry sauce!  As we gather for Thanksgiving, it’s a perfect opportunity before the food is served to express our gratitude for all our blessings, whether it’s thanking our family or the Holy One for all of their support and help.

We know how challenging it can be to pause in our day and express gratitude for all of the many blessings of daily living: the miracle of the senses, nourishment, companionship, our bodies, and nature.  The morning blessings serve to “wake us up,” reminding us to stop our daily routine and provide thanks for all of the blessings that surround us.  In this Thanksgiving season, may we find a moment during our days (either when we wake up or when we prepare for bedtime) to reflect upon all of the many blessings in our lives.  May we find the time to thank our loved ones and the Holy One for all of their support and love.  Happy Thanksgiving!