What Do You Say?

Multiple times throughout the day, I ask our six-year-old son, "What do you say, Leland?"

"Thank you," he replies—sometimes begrudgingly, but mostly with excitement and genuine gratitude, usually before scarfing down his favorite flavour of macaron or some other sweet treat. I am confident he feels appreciative, but—like all of us—he is learning to express his thanks to others without a reminder.

As we move into a holiday week set aside for intentional expressions of thanks, I can't help but think that God gathers us around the altar each week and asks us, "What do you say?" And, in that moment, when I'm at Mass, do I respond appropriately? If I'm being honest, there is always room for improvement. It's far too easy to be like the other nine lepers—who, in their excitement, joy, and relief, didn't turn back.

It's invaluable to be reminded each year during this season to "give thanks." I often wonder if the expectation of a formal expression, like a thank you card, quick words in passing, or the far too common texting abbreviation, 'TY' overshadow the small but heartfelt gestures, like a hug or a smile.

I will attune myself to this idea with Leland and trust that he lives his life in gratitude. I will look for that in the eyes of my family and friends, in my co-workers' actions, and in a stranger's patience. My love for my son doesn't diminish because of the absence of words. Jesus, in His divine love, didn't unheal those lepers. Thanksgiving is all around us, all the time—let's not wait for it to arrive, but once a year.