Help Me to Remember

For the past six years, I have been part of a group called Bethany that goes to the state correctional facility in Lansing, Kansas, to meet with Catholic inmates for Scripture study and faith sharing. When we go to the prison the night before Thanksgiving, I’m always surprised at the level of gratitude expressed by the inmates, even though they aren’t able to be with their families for the holiday. They are thankful for having a bed to sleep in and meals three times a day and are keenly aware that not all people have those blessings. Their attitude reminds me of the following prayer by Samuel Pugh:

       Oh, God, when I have food, help me to remember the hungry;

       when I have work, help me to remember the jobless;

       when I have a warm home, help me to remember the homeless;

       when I am without pain, help me to remember those who suffer;

       and remembering, help me to destroy my complacency

       and bestir my compassion.

       Make me concerned enough to help, by word and deed,

       those who cry out for what we take for granted. 

Here at the Mount, we have been offered a unique reminder of our blessings for the past several days: A banner featuring each letter of the alphabet has been placed on the back tables of the dining room, with markers available so we can make lists of the things we are thankful for, from A to Z. It’s a wonderful call to be mindful of the many things we take for granted and to acknowledge how much we have been given.

I have much to be grateful for as I anticipate my first Thanksgiving at the Mount, including the opportunity to be connected to so many people through The Monastic Call. I will remember you with gratitude on Thanksgiving day!