I have always loved Thanksgiving. It is time for rest, reflection, appreciation, football, being with family and friends and green bean casserole. But this year in particular, Thanksgiving came at an important moment. November was a hard. The mountain of work and effort of processing was draining. By Thanksgiving break, I was physically and emotionally exhausted.
Last Tuesday I realized that this was the first time I would celebrate Thanksgiving without my parents. My brother and I had opted to stay together and go to a friends house, rather than traveling to meet up with the rest of our family. Though we had decided to FaceTime on Thanksgiving day, I was beginning to realize the traditions I have always taken for granted that I would miss. I came into the week with a lot of lingering stresses. What I found in the next couple days was a lot of peace and love and exactly what I needed.
In my last blog post, I talked about Sabbath moments. My thanksgiving break was full of them. I found rest in the movie nights, and homemade meals. I found peace in secluded bookstores and little coffee shops. I was made whole by the hugs, dancing and laughter.
This break I was reminded of the importance of rest, that it is crucial to slow down, withdraw from the schoolwork and internet and spend time with loved ones. My
I came back from this break refreshed and renewed.
These past few days Matthew 11:28 has been on my mind. Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
I have a lot to be thankful for, I have been blessed with incredible people in my life, an education, so many opportunities. But this year, I am most thankful for this time to rest.