Thanksgiving

I so wish the United States of America well on this day of Thanksgiving. A photograph of gridlocked traffic on CNN today touched something deep in me. I saw a nation literally queueing up to offer thanks. Now that is great – in the already great nation that is beloved home to favourite writers, poets and journal keepers – Roger Housden, Mary Oliver, Parker Palmer, May Sarton and William Stafford.

Home also to dear and hugely valued friends and teachers – Lori Ferguson, Mimi Krumholz, Ivon Prefontaine (also writers), and the marvellous Wolverson family. I shall remember the Cafe du Monde in New Orleans and a lovely wedding in Covington, Louisiana for the rest of my days, together with a most generous hospitality and grace.

And I look to the day when a happy little group of dreamers assemble in rocking chairs on the sunshine filled deck of Mimi and Andy’s new home. We’ll share grilled cheese, good coffee and the miracle of friendship that has blossomed between people who have never met. We are, truly, connected by more than the eye can see.

That’s what I want to say the biggest “thank you” for today. The immeasurably valued relationships that exist between people who have connected only by way of shared goodwill, or learning, or poetry, or the arts generally, or quiet reflection and contemplation upon the sheer gift and wonder of life. Without them, my life would be poorer. I greet them all, with love – and Thanksgiving.