A Time of Giving Thanks

By Maddie Lock | November 28, 2019

It’s that time of year to be thankful for all we have. To take a few deep breaths between our busy-ness and take a moment to experience the stillness we need to  reflect on those tiny moments that pass by like images on a home movie. It’s reflecting on those snippets that create those memories which make up the story of our lives. So often, the days slide by and we are left with (like me) a sense of panic as I tick off  so many things I still want to accomplish, versus the time left in my way too short life.

In a few days I’ll board a plane for the overnight flight to Germany  to help my dear father celebrate his 93rd birthday on December 18th. I am thankful every day that I was able to find him, after a lifetime of not knowing anything about the man who gave me half my DNA. I am thankful that we took to each other and have been able to bond as father and daughter. It’s too bad there is an ocean between us, but then, it could be worse. He could be spending his days sprawled on a beach in Tahiti, far around the world. On second thought, what a great excuse to join him if he did! Instead we’ll spend our time strolling through those fabulous German Christmas Markets, drinking that fabulous red wine concoction known as Gluhwein and eating fabulous bratwurst smothered in spicy mustard on a semmel bun. Yum! What a great time of year to have a birthday.

Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Germany. At least not as we in the U.S. know it. The Germans call it Erntedankfest, a celebration of thankfulness for an abundant harvest. It’s more prevalent in the churches, than say, a Macy’s parade or a decadent layout of food. I also believe that along with thanks for the harvest, a few thoughts go out for family and friends who make life rich and abundant.

As our days fly by and our faces are graced with character lines, our insides too are graced with the markings of time. Let them reflect a life of love, respect, compassion, and joy. Those are the values to grace our Thanksgiving table with, not just on that November day, but every day before and after.

Look out, Papa. I’m coming soon with lots of hugs. For now, this is all I want to accomplish.

Posted in Family, Ruminations
Maddie Lock

About Maddie Lock

Born in Germany and adopted by an American Army officer, Maddie Lock fell in love with words as she learned the English language. When her stepfather retired, the family settled in Florida, where Maddie graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in English Lit. After a brief freelance journalism career, Maddie side-tracked into the business world, eventually founding and building a successful security integration firm. After selling her company, it was time to return to her first passion of writing. Her combined love for dogs and children prompted two early readers: the award-winning Ethel the Backyard Dog, and Sammy the Lucky Dog. Focus soon shifted to creative nonfiction. Her essays have been published in various journals and anthologies, and she has recently completed a memoir.

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