Traditions – A Thankful Heart

In today’s fast paced world, it often seems outdated to stop and pray. Many meetings begin dinner with a blessing and those in private homes continue to do so.

In “Keep The Change” Darryl Worley makes mention of this timeless tradition.

“And if you see me close my eyes and bow my head
Before I break bread with my family
It ain’t a habit, it’s important
It’s my right.”

The customs of prayers before eating are not just “a Christian thing.” As we celebrate #FoodThanks on Twitter this month, an increased thankfulness and appreciation for an abundance of food is key.

It’s in this vein that a book by Adrian Butash can offer a fascinating look at the custom of saying grace. Bless This Food is a tradition far beyond the Christian faith.

Deep peace of the running wave to you,

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you

Deep peace of the flowing air to you,

Deep peace of the shining star to you.

This Gaelic blessing, on page 146 of the book, traces to the fifth century missionary Saint Patrick. There’s reflections on the Lord’s Prayer, familiar to us as an example of how to pray, credited with origins to 1662.

Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, in earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our trespasses,

As we forgive them who trespass against us.

And lead us not into temptation

But deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory,

For ever and ever. Amen.

Prayers of thankfulness are included from India, Africa and Native American traditions as well as Christian. Consider celebrating thankfulness from many directions.

#FoodThanks celebrates those who provide our food. Bless This Food is a way to look at ways to do so. Our sponsorships here at SlowMoneyFarm offer a way to give going forward, providing food to those needing a hand up during a low time.

Look around at the abundance surrounding us. Look at the hundreds of food choices that we choose to not buy, and bless the food you choose for your family. Offer #FoodThanks and explore the blessings in this little book.

It all fits together doesn’t it? As we enter the holiday season, may we keep in special mind those missing someone at the table for the first time this year, and hold dear the many who keep our world going.

And may we never be too busy to be thankful for food.