There are many traditions associated with Thanksgiving.

One observed by many families is to have everyone at the table tell what they have to be thankful for. Among the serious and thoughtful comments there is the occasional jokester who recites, “I am thankful we aren’t having brussel sprouts,” or some other food they hold in disregard.

Aside from that, we all know the many blessings we have to enjoy. It seems along with thankfulness comes a sense of responsibility to share those blessings, so that others may feel similarly blessed and thankful.

One man, Mayo Livingston, had that thought a few years ago. As he sat around his Thanksgiving table considering his many blessings he was struck with the knowledge of those in this community he knew were not enjoying a bountiful Thanksgiving dinner, or any other dinner.

He took action and assembled a group of volunteers to package Thanksgiving dinners to be distributed to the shut-ins, those living alone, and even those living without a home. Even though Mr. Livingston is not able to take part this year, this tradition carries on.

Community people will gather on Thanksgiving morning at the First Methodist Church to prepare plates of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, and other side dishes (except maybe for brussel sprouts) to be taken to those who would not otherwise enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.

Thus, the thankfulness a few volunteers put into action helps spread that feeling of thankfulness to many, many more.