Build a Longer Table

Scoot over. Pull up a chair. Let’s build a longer table.

It’s that time of year where we find ourselves gathering around wooden tables — jigsaw puzzles, rolling out dusty pie crusts, card games, and feasting. 

I find myself once again overwhelmed with gratitude and feelings of abundance. 

Which has me thinking what I want to do with all of this goodness and joy– re-framing my abundance beyond gratitude, and maybe as something meant to be more fully shared. 

What are my gifts? Who needs them? How might I share?

The Thanksgiving table has always been about gratitude. And maybe this year, it can also be about growing even more of our gratitude  — recognizing not just what we have, but also the gifts we can share, and who else we can welcome.

Building a longer table, a metaphor for sharing and inclusivity brings to light the notion of inviting in new voices, adopting new traditions, and listening to new stories. 

I am wondering what adding a few more seats at our growing tables might look like for each of us this season?

• Deeper stories

• New points’ of view to consider

• Finding odd comfort in our ability to sit with uncomfortable conversations

• Observing the cracks in our table as beautiful; remembering they hold their own stories of wear, tear, and growth

• No doubt, more laughter and curiosity bantered around

Maybe this time, the invitation isn’t just “Come and eat!”

Instead, it’s scoot over,  share your gifts, come and be seen. 

Come and see differently.