On a day like Thanksgiving, it behooves us to consider how important the idea of gratitude is to us as humans, and even more so, as Jews.
Jewish life is saturated with expressions of gratitude. Every day is Thanksgiving. We wake up with “Modeh Ani – I gave thanks” as the first words to come through our lips. Our prayers are filled with expressions of gratitude to Hashem for all that He gives us. In the Birchat Hamazon – Grace After Meals, the second blessing begins, “Nodeh Lecha – we give thanks to You” and goes on to list so many of the things for which we are grateful. The words “Thank G-d” roll easily off our tongues in response to every inquiry as to our wellbeing.
(Quite often, when I respond with the phrase “Thank G-d” to a casual “How are you?” from a receptionist or check out clerk, I get a puzzled stare in return. As if to say, “What does Thank G-d have to do with this?”)
Basic “Menschlichkeit” or being a “Mensch” calls for effusive expressions of gratitude. Say thank you early and often! Ungratefulness is one of the worst dimensions of human character. In the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, when G-d confronts Adam as to why he ate from the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge, Adam replies, “The woman whom You gave me—she gave me of the tree, and I ate.” Upon this Rashi comments, citing the Talmud, “Here (Adam) showed his ingratitude.”
The following is beautiful idea that I recently came across. During our prayers we recite the Amidah. In the Synagogue, the silent Amidah is followed by the cantor’s repetition of the Amidah. The congregation responds Amen to each of the 19 blessings recited by the cantor. There is one blessing in which the congregation chimes in to express a sentiment that echoes the cantor’s blessing. That is the blessing of thanksgiving. We all proclaim “Modim Anachnu Lach – we give thanks to You.” Why is it not enough just to say Amen like with the other blessings? Because when it comes to gratitude, you must do it on your own. You cannot fulfill your obligation to be grateful with someone else’s “Modim Anachnu Lach,” you must say it for yourself.
Thank You Hashem for all that You have given us and will continue to give us!
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Mendel Rivkin