Find Gratitude in November 2020

In November 1942, Artist Norman Rockwell painted one of his most recognized oil paintings titled Freedom From Want.  The painting was part of a series of four that were inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1941 State of Union Address defining the four freedoms.  In his words from that speech:

“The basic things expected by our people of their political and economic systems are simple. They are:

• Equality of opportunity for youth and for others.
• Jobs for those who can work.
• Security for those who need it.
• The ending of special privilege for the few.
• The preservation of civil liberties for all.
• The enjoyment — The enjoyment of the fruits of scientific progress in a wider and constantly rising standard of living.

These are the simple, the basic things that must never be lost sight of in the turmoil and unbelievable complexity of our modern world. The inner and abiding strength of our economic and political systems is dependent upon the degree to which they fulfill these expectations.”

When the painting was completed in November 1942, the United States was deeply entrenched in World War II with both an East and West Theater.  The painting was symbolic of abundance in life- family, food, and civil liberties to gather.  At time when many young men were fighting overseas for their countries, it was a hopeful affirmation of American ideals post war.

In this year of COVID where American freedoms seem eroded and empty seats will be the norm at many holiday tables,  it is important to recall other times in history that required gratitude in the face of great difficulty.