As we welcome the day of Thanksgiving tomorrow, the plight of the Syrian refugees and the rhetoric of fear that cries out from those who live comfortably in the land of the free will continue on, unfortunately. The Syrian crisis easily reminds us of our American Thanksgiving story of a people longing for religious freedom who found themselves fearful of the natives who greeted them. Thanksgiving is not a day to be fearful of others. Instead, may we be grateful for our religious ancestors who helped create religious freedom in this country, AND may we continue to hold up the dignity and worth of anyone who is in search of freedom from oppression of any kind. Let us have gratitude for the freedom we have and hold, and let us strive to live our lives free from fear by calling out our best selves promoting compassion for all. We have much to be grateful for on this Thanksgiving Day.

Rev. Nan L. White
RVUUF Developmental Minister