Fasting in a time of feasting

"It is only when we silence the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts." ~K.T. Jong

"Real action is done in moments of silence." ~ Emerson

These two quotes served as spurs to my Thanksgiving feast, of sorts. You see, this Thanksgiving feast witnessed a different fare than the usual turkey and pumpkin pie (and no, I did not go vegan...) Instead of a feast of food, I opted to feast on gratitude and solitude. And it was glorious. I spent Thanksgiving day fasting out of gratitude to the Lord. I went to the trails by my house, sat, and pondered my blessings. For hours I was able to write in my journal about all I am grateful for, pouring my heart out to God in gratitude for the many things He has provided me. I read my scriptures and mused over why I am grateful for specific things like eyesight or hot water. I was able to delve more deeply into the real reasons for gratitude, and it deepened my humility and feeling of awe over what I truly possess. Solitude was a perfect companion for gratitude. As I sat unencumbered by responsibility, acquaintances, and the daily rush, I was able to reflect on my life, my talents, and my blessings. The resultant feelings were ones of incomprehensible joy and indebtedness. As I sat down that night to eat my dinner, I was not only grateful for food to eat; I found a plethora of reasons for which to be thankful: arms and hands so that I could prepare the meal, a job so that I could earn money to buy food, energy and life so that I could obtain work, a mouth that allowed me to taste my food, cooking and eating utensils, and a warm home in which to eat my food. I feel humbled to again realize that I, of myself, am nothing, and can produce nothing. Every blessing and every good thing comes from God, and I have nothing of which to boast. I can claim nothing of my own. It all comes from God. Thanksgiving has taken on a new meaning for me, and I hope that I can always take time to sit and reflect on the blessed state of my life, no matter how difficult and devoid of blessings it may ever seem.