Keep it simple make it fun (KISMIF)

If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is “Thank You”, it would be enough. —Johannes (“Meister”) Eckhardt (13th-14th century mystic)

I won't be celebrating “Turkey Day” as the radio announcers call it. I'll be observing Thanksgiving. I can't see myself celebrating when the troops in Iraq are undergoing hardships. It will be a somber time of reflection for me, out of respect for the dead on both sides. The turkey is safe from me; I don't eat animals, and I plan on a simple meal for myself. The kids will get something a little more festive.

In happier times, I would enjoy the day more, but not to excess. A day set aside for showing gratitude has turned into a day of gluttony for many. My personal observation of the shopping frenzy over the past week is that a lot of people are really overdoing this and spoiling the holiday. It will turn into a day of disappointment, because no amount of (over) consumption will lead to personal fulfilment. I suspect that ignoring this fact is what causes the “holiday blues”.