Thanksgiving 2023: Gathering Gratitude
November 21, 2023 by Analise Narine
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and reflection. We give thanks for what we have, build warm and sometimes funny memories with friends and family, and, of course, eat a delicious meal together. We’re celebrating the holiday with a different kind of potluck today: gratitude. Our staff has brought some of their best Thanksgiving anecdotes, advice, and secret ingredients to the table to share with you—take a look below.
Who are you most grateful for this year?
“I have some pretty incredible clients. I’m a movement therapist who works with neurological disease, stroke, and genetic disorders. Along with my dear friends in the Belong Disability Ministry, these individuals light up my life and make my heart smile with every step of progress.”
Cailey Brandon, Belong Disability, Spotlight Academy of the Arts Coordinator
What are you most grateful for this year?
“HPUMC. This church has not only given me a multitude of blessings to receive, but it has, even more importantly, opened up opportunities for me to serve. Building homes through Carpenters for Christ, sharing fellowship with community members through Belong and Journey, serving meals at The Table and Austin Street, and serving our own congregation by folding bulletins and welcoming fellow congregants.”
Allison Foster-Letico, MCLN Fellow, Outreach
What are you most grateful for this year?
“This year, I'm most grateful for the good health, friends, and family that God has given me.”
Israel Vango, IT Support Technician
What would you say to someone who is struggling to be grateful?
“You can always be grateful on someone else's behalf. For example, you can be grateful that a friend finally got a job, that a family member is safe and healthy, etc.”
Julie Ann Wallis, Project Manager
What would you say to someone who is struggling to be grateful?
“Look up. Our God is a good God who does everything for our benefit. Even when times are hard, God is near. May he wrap you in his loving arms and provide comfort and peace this holiday season.”
Olivia Twining, Belong Disability Volunteer & Operations Coordinator
What is your most memorable Thanksgiving story?
“My grandpa was in charge of cooking the turkey for Thanksgiving. When it was time to eat, he looked in the oven and realized he never turned it on... whoops!”
Olivia Twining
Thanksgiving 2023 Featured Food: Sweet Potato Casserole
“I make it with coconut sugar and almond milk for a paleo recipe. I get compliments every year!”
Cailey Brandon
“Instead of marshmallows on top, use a mixture of crushed pecans and brown sugar.”
Julie Ann Wallis