The following reflection is from Rev. Gary Beach who was my pastor when I was confirmed, and later my District Superintendent and friend. I wanted to share it with you:

Today I am thankful for medical personnel who, even this day, are risking health and their lives to care for the sick and comfort the dying in the absence of family and friends. Today I am thankful for scientists researching treatments to restore health and vaccines to prevent illness. Today I am thankful for persons who, whether out of choice or necessity, work in the public at risk to their own health to make it easier for persons like myself to more easily “shelter in place” just like the grocery store employee who shopped for our groceries and placed them in the trunk of our car yesterday. Today I mourn with the millions in our nation and around the world who grieve the loss of family members and friends who leave an empty seat at the table. And I am thankful for a God who is present with them to provide comfort, strength, and hope in the face of unimaginable grief made worse because of the fact that they were not able to be present with or hold the hand of the dying. And, more than ever, I am aware of just how much I have taken for granted every day of my life including family and friends like you. May each of you have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving!