A Thanksgiving Greeting from Rod Romney

Dear Friend,
As I was walking around the streets of Portland today, enjoying the beautiful holiday decorations and trying to ignore the panhandlers that stood on nearly every corner, suddenly, for no discernible reason, I found myself remembering the many wonderful friends that have been given to me in this lifetime. They have blessed me beyond measure, have believed in me even when I failed to do so myself, have accepted me for who I am and not for what I do, have been a resource of knowledge and understanding for me, and have given more to me than I could ever give back to them.

Filled with such gratitude and love for those who have blessed me in my life, I suddenly found myself face to face with a gray-haired, toothless old man in shabby clothing. He said to me, "Ya' wouldn't have somethin' to give an ole man, would ya', podner?" All my judgements and reservations against panhandlers were suddenly gone, and I said, "What do you need most?" He looked down, silent for a few moments, and then looked up and answered, "A friend." I reached into my pocket, found a bill and placed it in his hand, as I said, "I am your friend. Go have a good meal on me, and God bless you." His face twisted with emotion as he took the bill into his roughened hand. Then followed a radiant smile as he muttered, "Thank you, m'friend."

Jesus said, "You are my friends if you do what I have commanded." His commandment was simple but so difficult at times: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Giving money to street people is not always a wise or good thing to do, but being a friend to someone who needs that, if only for a moment, is one of the best gifts we can ever offer to another.

I am sending this little greeting to many of my friends on this day before Thanksgiving to thank you for the friendship you have given to me. Without it I could not be who I am. Each of you has given me something priceless, the gift of your friendship. My heart is filled with love and gratitude for each of you. Beverly and I will be with her family here in Portland for this Thanksgiving, but in a very real way each of you will be here with me. Thank you for all you have meant to me and for being my friend. Happy Thanksgiving.

Blessings,
Rod Romney
November 23, 2004