Thanksgiving and “good already received”

Thanksgiving, a marked event of continued good, remains a date important to the inner strength of the United States and of every individual who engages in gratitude. Why? Because it calls, by its very name, for collective thought to stop and give thanks. Mary Baker Eddy explains the universal law concerning gratitude in a compelling inquiry: “Are we really grateful for the good already received?”

We must guard and enrich our present moment. Let it not be regret of past, or fear of future, but gratitude for present good — gratitude for “good already received.” This gratitude occurs on different levels. Most commonly, we list things we have been blessed with that fulfill needs and wants, such as a good relationship, anything positive financially, opportunities on the horizon, sufficient food or a home, freedoms enjoyed, family and friends, and so forth.

When we are “really grateful “ for these things that we already have, then the Law of the universe kicks in. as further explained in the citation under consideration. There is, however, one additional action step following our giving of thanks. We must “ avail ourselves of the blessings we have.”

What does this mean, to avail? It is to use to one’s advantage. Actively engage with all the good you already have — take nothing for granted. Maintain conscious gratitude for these things. The result, Science and Health explains, is that we are then “fitted to receive more.” So you feel you need more of something for your own, or others’ welfare? Thanksgiving provides hands-on opportunity to demonstrate increasing practical good.

Moreover, a deeper level of gratitude may be based on the synonyms for God: Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, and Love, Gratitude that there is one God, one Mind, and that we each reflect this one perfect Mind, is availing ourselves of a blessed truth that “fits us to receive “ more in the way of intelligence, memory, spiritual understanding, perspicacity, and wisdom. Gratitude for the one Mind reflected by man can bring healing to mental or emotional disorders, raise comprehension abilities, perfect decision-making, and lift consciousness into the heights of Spirit with realization. This results in added blessings innumerable!

If you had to choose but three things this moment on the various levels of gratitude, what would they be? Then be active with these things and prepare to receive more— limitless more!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Abby at Scriptual Study Center