Jack Burns Lives!

Thanks and Hope

The juncos have returned, signifying the closeness of winter. Except it’s hard to believe winter is near when it is 66 degrees outside.

In addition to the juncos, the garden is filled with Carolina wren, Carolina chickadee and Northern Cardinal. They’re wonderful little creatures that bring joy to any heart that’s open.

And it’s Thanksgiving again, the annual American gluttonous feast where thanks is given to a imaginary deity that loves and blesses us. Except it’s hard to believe this is possible when you consider reality.

Speaking of reality, I suggest you do a little research on the turkey industry in the United States. Think you’re doing okay by getting a “free range, organic” bird? Think again! The poultry industry is a cruel, disgusting industry characterized by genetic engineering, torture and mass slaughter, and there’s a lot of lying and deceit throughout.

On this day, I’m thankful my children have returned from school. I’m thankful for my loving wife and for all living things. Except perhaps for George Bush and those that make war on other living things, including trees, rivers, our air and our soil. Even rocks.

In fact, we should all be thankful these things remain. I give thanks for the resiliency of nature, and it’s ability to withstand and overcome the apparently hopeless stupidity of man.

I’m hopeful the people of Darfur and Iraq can have peace today. No bombs, no murders, no torture and senseless bloodshed. I’m hopeful there will one day be a day when all living things can live in peace and without fear of the evil that exists around us today.

I’m thankful for today and for the feeling I have right this moment. Peace. Contentment. A calm spirit.

I wish the same for you and for all.