November 22nd, 2007 — Culture
My friend and colleague Mark Mitchell has written a piece for, I believe it is, “Modern Age” as part of a series on “Why I Am a Conservative.” Dr. Mitchell articulates a not-just-political philosophy based on gratitude. He is a conservative because he is grateful. Do you see the connection?
It’s not published yet, so it isn’t online. I’ll try to put it up when possible. Anyway, I thought Dr. Mitchell’s point is fitting to contemplate on Thanksgiving.
November 22nd, 2007 — Culture, Vocation
Chesterton said one of the saddest things about being an atheist had to be not having anyone to thank when you feel truly grateful. So do atheists celebrate Thanksgiving? Yes, they do. This guide for non-believers encourages atheists to celebrate the day by thanking farmers and modern scientists for the abundance they make possible. What is missing (besides the doctrine of vocation, in which God gives us our daily bread and our Thanksgiving feast through people like these an others) is the even deeper gratitude for being, for just the joys of simple existence. I still feel sorry for the atheists.