Yesterday was a day of feasting for those of us in the United States. I have friends in other countries that are amused at the amount of feasting that goes on that carries over to what we call Black Friday. I have to admit that, while I love the food and the eating, I also feel a bit guilty at the amount of food consumed when so many have so little. Nothing goes to waste since we have a big family, but there is still that feeling of overwhelming sadness.
Sadness gives way to gratitude very quickly when I see all of my family gathered together laughing and smiling and just being together. I know how blessed I am that we all live so close together and that we actually love and like each other. And I know that I am blessed to have what I need, even though there are times that it seems there is nothing there and nothing coming.
But what astounds me is that I know that our family is not alone, and yet, the world seems to be searching for that next thrill and next best thing to fill some void unspoken. I understand that void as well because I have felt it many times. But when all is said and done in this life, the only void that should have focus is the gratitude heart.
Joining those that fill the stores on Black Friday which now begins Thursday evening does not fill that void. Fighting the other shoppers to grab the newest Thing with the door buster price does not fill that void. Maxing out the credit card or spending the rent money to buy those amazing newest Things that will surely tell your family and friends just now much you care for them because you fought the crowds and won does not fill the void.
No, looking at those intangible things that make your heart sing each and every day fills the void with gratitude. Those are the newest Things that are worth the struggle. And those are the Things that will fill the void.
I would change Black Friday into Pink Friday – pink for the color of love. Or how about green for healing? Or maybe we just call it a Friday?
Dancing Naked 