First Baptist Church of Herndon

Thankful

Linda Soller | Nov 25, 2024

We think fondly of our pilgrim forefathers (and mothers), along with their Native American neighbors for the various foods served at the first Thanksgiving. I’m sure our manner of preparation has evolved from that time, but even traditions need to evolve. If we become stagnant, we may be missing a creative opportunity,  inspiring solution, or simply a welcome change. However, we should keep in mind the importance of tradition and heritage. I think we can strike a balance.

My grandmother Emily made amazing corn pudding, so I’ve heard. I couldn’t tell you from eating experience because I don’t eat corn (long story). I asked her to teach me how to make her corn pudding so it would continue as a staple at our Thanksgiving meals. You can imagine I got a lot of - a touch of this, a bit of that, lots of eggs, and need I say it, a ton of butter. She didn’t have the recipe written down. I wrote what I observed, and over the first few years tweaked it so as not to be a heart attack on the plate. To this day I make a great corn pudding, so I’m told, and Grandma Emily continues to touch the life of our family.

You may come from a different tradition, you may like spicey food, or perhaps you don’t  eat meat at all. Yet, this week we celebrate Thanksgiving, and the turkey has become a symbol of the holiday. Even if you are not a fan of turkey, I ask you to consider this. Thanksgiving is a holiday of tradition, of heritage, of sharing, and supporting one another. It doesn’t require gifts, or sending cards to your entire mailing list, or endless hours of shopping. This holiday is about the people we love, the ones we miss, those who need our help, and those who are thankful for what they have. Whether you celebrate along, with family, with friends, with strangers, or with veggie lovers I solute you for the act of celebrating Thanksgiving. Historians doubt that Marie Antoinette ever said, “let them eat cake”. I don’t care if you eat turkey, but I’m thankful for the holiday, the majestic bird, and you!

Be kind, be brave, have faith!  : )   Linda