Remembering seems to go hand in hand with gratitude. Years ago, I discovered that it was impossible for me to be grateful for people, places, and events that I had forgotten about. Thus, I am appreciative that both my Catholic background and our Patriotic traditions have introduced me to the importance of Remembrance.
Ever since the early centuries of Christianity, November has been known as “The Month of Remembrance.” November 1 and 2 were set aside as days to remember the dead. They are days to honor all of the Saints, both known and unknown. For me, it is also a time to remind myself that all that I am, all that I know, and all that I have, is not the result of my own solo accomplishments, but rather is the result of the interconnectedness of my life with ALL of those who have gone before me. Whether they are Canonized Saints, loving Ancestors, or deceased Veterans, this Time of Remembrance helps me to more deeply recognize that my daily life is both connected and interconnected with all of those who have walked on this Earth before me.
November 11th is another great celebration of Remembrance. Where would I personally be without our US Veterans? How different would my life be if all of those brave men and women who have served our Great Nation had not been ready and willing to give their lives for Freedom, for my freedom?
And so as we approach the Great American Holiday of Thanksgiving, I am sincerely grateful for all of my many blessings. I am grateful to all of those who contributed to my life in both seen and unseen ways. I am also grateful for November being “the Month of Remembrance,” and for all of the reminders that we are never alone on our path through life, but rather that the intricate web of ALL of our lives is both connected and interconnected throughout Eternity!
