Thankfulness is Always in Season
11-1-2021
As our thoughts move toward the Thanksgiving holiday, Leading Change asked members of the McCormick community about aspects of this season that enhance feelings of thankfulness.
“A person with an optimistic attitude tends to be grateful for even the little things that he has received and achieved. As an optimist, I would first like to thank God Almighty for the guidance and this opportunity to reflect on what I have accomplished so far. It may be a dream for an Asian like me and several students eager to get the best education possible in the U .S. with abundant educational opportunities.
“However, I was blessed to have that dream come true by being a part of a renowned school of theology, McCormick Theological Seminary. One of the remarkable experiences I received from coming to the U.S. as an international student was the seasons. I am thankful for the ever-changing greenery and the cold ambiance I have never experienced before.”
Rajitha De Mel
“It seems to be a simple question. But for me, it’s more complex. I say this because the word “season” does not only mean “time.” It encompasses time, space, place, mind, and thought. For me it is existential in nature. So, with this in mind, I will share with you the aspects of this season that I have come to be thankful for.
I am most thankful for difference and the sheer beauty of it. Being able to celebrate difference by being thankful for everyone’s uniqueness and the intricately woven fabric that makes us different but also unites us.
This season is revealing itself to be one of awakening for me, because without it I would still be trapped in complacency and stagnation…my being, my complete self, metamorphosing to an early, untimely death.
I am so thankful for this season! This season has proven to me that regardless of what is happening, God is in control. This season has shown me that I don’t have to carry the heavy burdens alone. I really don’t have to carry them at all. Jesus Christ said that he will bear our heavy loads and that I can cast all my cares upon him.
During this season, I am thankful to more fully understand that I do not have the responsibility to strategically plan my life because I know that God is in control. When I see a movie, hear a song, or smell a particular scent reminding me of those who I love that are no longer here and begin to feel sad, that it’s ok.
This season, I am most thankful that God is in control.
Stephanie Moore
Director of Development
Rajitha De Mel
MTS Student
Stephanie Moore
Director of Development