DEAR READERS: At a reader's request, I've broadened my Sunday prayer for the holidays, most especially Thanksgiving. The goal, as she suggested, is to blur age and religious differences so that everyone — reading or listening, young and not-so-young — feels blessed.

The Prayer

Sunday being a traditional day of rest, I want to suggest you add to it another tradition: putting aside double scoops of quiet time to consider and count your blessings. This tradition, with no religious or secular restrictions, will sprinkle appreciation on everyone — which is, after all, its goal. The very best part about it is that it comes with no limits, no number of times it's appropriate, no stated places that are off-limits. It is indeed an all-purpose thanksgiving, not at all limited to one special day. Wherever and whenever your beloveds are gathered together, fill the air with gratitude, naming and blessing each one by name. Thank the Creator for each one's presence in your life.

Give thanks for living in America, for its freedom to dream. Be grateful for the mobility afforded by good health. Include your most precious assets — the ability to reason and to risk, to laugh and to cry.

It's so easy to fall into a semi-slumber that merely pushes you through your days, numb to their possibilities and to your own. Yes, I know there are problems in your life; there are in mine, too. No one gets through without his package. And even when the biggies have retreated and no crisis looms, there are still small worries that do their very best to sap energy and optimism. But I believe each of us has an obligation — a mission, truly — to lovingly tend the sacred energy that entered us at birth. To do that, we need to recognize the inscrutable wisdom of the soul and put it at the helm of our life.

Strive to be happy. Be grateful to your Creator, however you perceive him. Just being is miraculous.

Have a question for Susan? You can reach her directly at susan@single-file.com.COPYRIGHT 2014 CREATORS.COM