Thanksgiving weekend signals many things, the most obvious being winter is on the way.
A trip to the Erin Fall Fair confirmed that as the turn in weather came up just shy of a snow, as has been the case in the past.
The fair to close off the season for Wellington County enthusiasts, complete with livestock judging, annual craft contests for all ages in the big hall, the food lane and the midway, offered up sources of interest for everyone.
Hopefully Canadians get another spurt of warm weather to finish up fall tasks not yet completed. Potatoes need to be dug and gardens still need turned over before the ground freezes. There’s always something to do on the farm as one season ends and another begins.
With the cold weather a fire in the wood stove seemed in order. As the heat wafted through the living room most of the occupants, including a spoiled cat and a grandson too cute for words, dozed off into a post-lunch slumber. These moments of solitude are very welcome in a world that never seems to stop.
It also gave time for this old-timer to day-dream a bit about people we knew, and the good life most Canadians have.
As the war in Ukraine rages on, conflict between Hamas and Israel erupted this past weekend resulting in hundreds of deaths over the weekend.
Daily suffering and unspeakable brutality are something most Canadians have been spared in our history. We are so sheltered from world events that it is hard to imagine living under those conditions.
With all these centuries inhabiting Earth, surely barbarous conflict could come to an end – but it does not.
Similarly, Canadians don’t generally have to worry about shelter and food like much of the less wealthy countries around the globe. There will always need to be work on these items, but solutions can be found.
For many of the poor countries, however, their choices are few and far between.
Access to medical care is another area Canadians have a leg up on countries where seeking medical attention is costly and, in some cases, not even available.
Images of people, particularly children who are hopelessly ill or maimed, are enough to break the hearts of most. We are so fortunate here in Canada, even if it takes a little more time than we like. Canadians have a chance at least.
Giving thanks on Thanksgiving is as much a custom as pumpkin pie. While a few special people are missing this year, that shouldn’t stop anyone from expressing thanks for having known them.
Good memories can be gifts that keep on giving and the unselfish are wise to share remembrances with friends and future generations. Wisdom comes with living.
For all this we give thanks.
