Speaking of Spirit

  Norman Rockwell [Public domain] This Thursday, people across the US will sit down with family and friends to celebrate the holiday we have come to know as Thanksgiving. Besides all the preparation going into cooking, many families enjoy the day by watching the traditional Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV, while others might bundle up for a rousing game of football played at the local high school. Still others might be enjoying the pro ball found on cable.    Thing is, this is the Norman Rockwell version of Thanksgiving. While I really enjoy Rockwell's work, I believe he did us no favors in portraying this day as completely blissful. For many, it is far from the idyllic scene he painted. So, as those of us who will enjoy the day with family and friends sit before the bounty on our tables, let us think of those who will not be celebrating with us. Whether through death or distance, hold those whose chairs stay empty on Thursday in your thoughts and prayers a

    Fra Angelico [Public domain] Many years ago, as a young girl, I would sit transfixed studying this painting by Fra Angelico. I tried to name the Saints pictured, many of them familiar thanks to the Sisters of St. Joseph and my mother. I remember asking Momma why we prayed to the Saints. She told me that Saints were like the Angels. They helped God take care of people. Made sense to me. Today is All Saints' day. I learned long ago that Saints aren't simply Catholic.  Many cultures have Saints, so it would seem that this is a very special day for many. To my favorite Saints (the ones I go to when I need a little extra help in life) St. Michael - the Archangel, St. Anthony, St. Theresa - the Little Flower, St. Jude, and Mother Mary, I offer prayers of thanks for all the protection and guidance given me through 60+ years of life. May the Saints be with us all as we travel through life.  Blessings!