"For what we are about to receive . . ."

 Years ago I went to a women's meeting in Japan. I was the only American there due to being national President of Church Women United. Our lunch the first day was a box lunch. I opened mine to look on raw fish, something I didn't recognize, rice and a sort of cabbage slaw. Oh dear. And then I realized this was food that had kept these people healthy and well for centuries and yes, there were a few things in the box I could eat. Then we were asked to bow our heads for the grace before the meal. The woman praying prayed in Japanese of course which I did not understand. Into my head came an ancient Anglican/ Episcopal prayer that has become practically by osmosis a part of Christian tradition no matter what our denomination. "Lord, for what we are about to receive, make us well and truly thankful." And I prayed that even over raw fish because I was being fed. 

Today an article in the NYT California section told about folks living in one of the richest counties in the state who have had to apply for food stamps and go to food banks because of the pandemic. I know this happens. I know people are suffering. And the article made me very aware that Dean and I are so blessed. We have continued to have an income and food on the table. At every meal we talk about how blessed we are and how grateful we are for food. "Lord, for what we are about to receive, make us well and truly thankful."