First, I want to thank God for the stay of execution granted Troy Davis. Actually, I should say the two (2) stays, the first from the Supreme Court while they decided whether to hear his appeal (unfortunately, they declined) and the second from the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals who reportedly will hear arguments concerning his case in December. Keep praying!
Second, I am thankful for the vindication of my faith in the Philadelphia Phillies. By winning the World Series on Oct. 29th, the Phillies revitalized my confidence that anything is possible. I have always been something of a sports fan, but moving to Philadelphia has resulted an intensifying commitment to the city's teams. I was euphoric after I got over my disbelief when the Phillies won - so euphoric that I stood in line for two hours and spent entirely too much money on Phillies celebration gear. In fact, I am still smiling! And it's a good thing too, because the Eagles aren't giving us a single thing to be glad about.
And then there is the election of Barack Hussein Obama as the 44th President of these United States. This reason for giving thanks is really multifaceted: 1. delight that an intellectual, wise, cool, good-looking Black man has finally ascended to the highest office in our land and 2. gratitude that Sarah Palin has returned to Alaska. Since the future portends unenviable challenges for our nation, I am much more confident having the reins of power in the hands of a thoughtful person of ideas. I chose a photo on election night with his wife Michelle Obama, because of my delight to see a loving Black couple ascend to such heights and because he always seems more relaxed and interesting when she is with him. (Did I mention how glad I am not to have to look at Sarah Palin and her "first dude"? Yes, I know that John McCain was the one running for president. The question is "Did she?")I would be remiss if I failed to give thanks, as always, for family and friends, life and health, employment and a home. Most of all, I thank God for a sense of purpose and identity, and for the privilege of being a thinker and a believer.
What are you thankful for?
UPDATE: The Eagles won, beating the Arizona Cardinals 48 to 20 to top off my thankful Thanksgiving! I take back what I said earlier.
