We only see cornucopias during the season of Thanksgiving. The word comes from the Latin cornu meaning “horn” and copia meaning “abundance.” Therefore, another name for cornucopia is horn of plenty.
Typically, cornucopias are horn-shaped woven wicker baskets that are filled to overflowing with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and nuts. They often are used to decorate a side table during the season of Thanksgiving or even as a centerpiece on the main table during the Thanksgiving meal. Wherever we see them, we are reminded that we have plenty.
Often, society tells us that there is scarcity. News stories tell us that there is a shortage of this item or that item. Advertisements tell us to “get it before it’s gone.” Plus, we are also often told that we need to have these items, or else we will miss out on something. If we listen to these messages, then we begin to believe that we don’t have enough. We think that our resources are limited.
However, our nation is not a nation of scarcity. Admittedly, there is a legitimate shortage of affordable housing right now, but for the most part we have an overabundance of resources. We have food, running water, electricity, and heat for the winter and cooling for the summer, transportation, jobs, beautiful national and state parks, and lots more. Plus, our biggest resources are our “can-do” spirit and our generosity. Every single time I see a drive for food or clothing or diapers or school supplies, people come out in droves to share out of their abundance. What this sharing does is help to distribute necessities to those who are in less-fortunate situations, thus helping to make sure that those in need get what they need.
What the cornucopia does is remind us of our abundance. It also reminds us to share our abundance with others. To give generously to others helps to foster a sense of community and mutual support. It also helps to assure that everyone has enough, moving from individual prosperity to collective well-being. Abundance is not what we hold on to but what we share. It is a privilege to be able to share our abundance with others.
As we enter into the season of Thanksgiving, my prayer is that we do give thanks to God for our abundance and that we do share our abundance with others. Blessed Thanksgiving!!
Pastor Beth
