faith

Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Faith in a Greater Power and Ourselves

by Joe Van Deuren | Nov 23, 2023 | Parenting, Self-care, Virtues

A Celebration of Balanced Faith

As Thanksgiving approaches, we are reminded of the warmth of gathering with loved ones, savoring delicious meals, and expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives. This cherished holiday is an occasion for feasting and an opportunity to reflect on one of life’s most profound virtues: faith.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s explore the connection between this virtue and the celebration of gratitude, emphasizing the dual aspects of faith—in a greater power and in ourselves—supported by the virtues of humility and gratitude.

Thanksgiving is an ideal time to contemplate our faith in a greater power, however, we may define it—whether as Grace, the Universe, God, or the Source of Life. It is the belief that our existence has a purpose, a divine plan that unfolds with wisdom and love. Faith in a greater power reminds us that we are not alone in this vast and mysterious universe. It instills in us a deep trust that our lives are guided by a benevolent force, even when challenges arise.

Simultaneously, Thanksgiving encourages us to embrace faith in ourselves. It is the unwavering belief that we are unique, capable, and deserving of the blessings that life has to offer. We were created with love, imbued with potential, and destined for greatness. Faith in ourselves fuels our dreams, propels us forward, and empowers us to overcome doubt, fear, and hopelessness.

Supporting Virtues

- Humility: Humility is the virtue that keeps our faith in check, preventing it from becoming arrogant or dogmatic. It teaches us to acknowledge the mysteries of the universe and to be open to guidance and wisdom from the greater power we believe in. In the context of Thanksgiving, humility reminds us to approach the holiday with reverence, recognizing that the abundance we celebrate is a gift from the divine, and we are mere stewards of these blessings.
- Gratitude: Gratitude is the bridge between these two aspects of faith. It allows us to express appreciation for the divine guidance and love we receive from the greater power while also acknowledging the innate potential and blessings within ourselves. Gratitude opens our hearts to the miracles that unfold in our lives, both as gifts from a higher source and as manifestations of our own capabilities.

Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Balanced Faith:

Thanksgiving, at its core, is a celebration of balanced faith. It invites us to strike a harmonious equilibrium between faith in a greater power and faith in ourselves. This balance is beautifully exemplified in giving thanks for the abundance we enjoy while acknowledging our role in shaping our destinies.

As we gather around tables laden with delectable dishes and share heartfelt expressions of gratitude, we nurture our faith in the divine and ourselves. We become like sailboats on the vast ocean of life, with faith in the greater power, guiding us toward our purpose as the wind in our sails. Meanwhile, faith in ourselves becomes the sturdy hull of the boat, providing stability and direction.

Thanksgiving: A Time for Reflection and Renewal:

Thanksgiving provides us with a unique opportunity to reflect and renew our faith. It encourages us to embrace humility by recognizing that the blessings we enjoy are not solely of our own making. They are intertwined with the benevolence of a higher power, the love that created us, and the interplay of circumstances beyond our control.

Moreover, this holiday calls upon us to cultivate gratitude as a daily practice, not just a once-a-year event. By acknowledging the gifts of the greater power and the potential within ourselves, we can infuse our lives with a profound sense of purpose and empowerment.

As we come together in the spirit of Thanksgiving, let us remember that this holiday is more than just a feast; it is a celebration of faith. It is a reminder that, through humility and gratitude, we can harmonize our faith in a greater power and in ourselves. In this exquisite balance, we find strength, purpose, and the unwavering belief that miracles are always within reach.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I reflect on the incredible journey we have embarked on together. This special occasion offers the perfect opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the families who have supported my blogging endeavors, embracing the value of the Virtues and the Four C’s of Successful Families.

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by Joe Van Deuren | Jun 26, 2021 | Virtues

Description

Faith is a relationship of trust. It is believing in the reality of Grace. We are confident that our life has a purpose. We believe in ourselves, knowing we were created with love. Faith is the wind int he sails of our dreams. It gives us the strength to go on, not succumbing to doubt, fear or hopelessness. As we move forward, we are guided to the right path without having to make it happen. Even in the most trying times, we are open to miracles.

In Family Life

The virtue of faith within a family manifests as a deep and abiding sense of trust, belief, and spiritual connection among its members. It is demonstrated through open conversations about beliefs, values, and shared spiritual practices that foster a sense of unity and purpose.

Family members encourage one another to face challenges with optimism and resilience, drawing strength from their shared faith. This virtue becomes more evident as the family navigates through uncertainties and difficult periods, drawing upon their shared belief system to discover purpose, hope, and the determination to surmount challenges.

Through their unwavering support, understanding, and shared commitment to their faith, the family builds an environment where love, respect, and a sense of belonging flourish.

Quote

“It is with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye.”

— Antoine de Saint Exupery, The Little Prince

The Practice of Faith

I seek a relationship with my Creator.
I trust that my life has meaning.
I am prayerful in all times and conditions.
I make discerning decisions.
I allow faith to guide my course.
I am receptive to wonders.

Balancing Faith

In life’s journey, faith is a powerful guiding force that takes two beautiful forms: faith in a greater power and faith in ourselves. These dual aspects of faith complement and empower each other, creating a harmonious and uplifting balance.

Whether you call it Grace, the Universe, God, or the Source of Life, faith in a greater power provides a profound sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. The anchor reminds us that we are not alone in this vast and mysterious universe. This faith instills in us a deep trust that our existence has a purpose, a divine plan that unfolds with wisdom and love.

Simultaneously, faith in ourselves is the belief that we are unique, capable, and deserving of the blessings that life has to offer. It’s the unwavering confidence that we were created with love, imbued with potential, and destined for greatness. This faith fuels our dreams, propels us forward, and empowers us to overcome doubt, fear, and hopelessness.

To strike a beautiful balance between faith in greater power and faith in ourselves, two supporting virtues play a vital role:

Humility: Humility teaches us that while we have individual strengths and capabilities, we are also part of a grander scheme of existence. It reminds us to acknowledge the mysteries of the universe and to be open to guidance and wisdom from the greater power we believe in. Humility keeps our faith in check, preventing it from becoming arrogant or dogmatic.
Gratitude: Gratitude is the bridge between these two aspects of faith. It allows us to express appreciation for the divine guidance and love we receive from the greater power while also acknowledging the innate potential and blessings within ourselves. Gratitude opens our hearts to the miracles that unfold in our lives, both as gifts from a higher source and as manifestations of our own capabilities.

When we strike a harmonious balance between faith in greater power and faith in ourselves, something truly uplifting happens. We experience a profound sense of purpose and empowerment that propels us on our life’s journey.

We become like a sailboat on a vast ocean, with faith in the greater power serving as the wind in our sails, guiding us towards our purpose. Meanwhile, faith in ourselves becomes the sturdy hull of the boat, providing stability and direction. In this beautiful synergy, we navigate the waters of life with grace and confidence, never succumbing to doubt or fear.

Even in the most challenging and trying times, our balanced faith keeps our spirits afloat, and we remain open to the miracles surrounding us. A dance of trust and self-belief elevates our existence, reminding us that we are both part of the cosmos and unique expressions of its beauty.

So, as we embrace these twin facets of faith, let us nurture humility and gratitude in our hearts, allowing them to harmonize our faith in a greater power with our faith in ourselves. In this exquisite balance, we find strength, purpose, and the unwavering belief that miracles are always within reach.