When we moved to Daufuskie more than 20 years ago, I splurged and gifted myself a new riding lawn mower. Unfortunately, when I went to use it for the first time, I found out that I had a lemon. Given the logistical challenges of life on this island, it was going to take a while to ship out the lemon and get a replacement, and the grass was going to keep growing in the meantime. Then I heard the sound of a riding mower down the street, and I went down to introduce myself to our neighbors. I also explained my dilemma and asked if I could borrow their mower. “No” replied my neighbor, “but I’ll come mow it for you.” This was one of many experiences that quickly demonstrated the uniqueness of our community.
Being a bridgeless island has historically placed an emphasis on neighbors helping neighbors, because we can’t simply call some company to come fix something for us. The water that separates us from the mainland has forced us to depend upon each other, in both tough and good times. This is the sort of place where you still might ask your neighbor if you can borrow a cup of sugar. Here it isn’t so much about throwing money at a situation, because the things that money can buy are often on the mainland, too distant to be of use. Instead, what our neighbors need is typically our presence and whatever we can bring. This is the essence of what makes our island such a great community – we are spread out in different neighborhoods, but we gather together with our hearts and our hands to be personally involved, whether it is in a moment of need or a time for celebration.
This is why our Community Thanksgiving event is iconic – it is truly a product of the community. The expectation is that you show up bringing a dish to share, and not simply a stomach to feed. Yes, donations are solicited to cover the costs of purchasing the meats and paper products for the event, but this is definitely not like showing up at a restaurant and paying to go through the buffet line. Now, if that is the only thing that you can do, then please come and be a part of the festivities. However, it is the participation of our neighbors who offer whatever help they can, whether it is cooking one of the supplied turkeys or hams, helping to set up, serve, and clean up, or bringing your favorite side dish or dessert from grandma’s family recipes, that makes this day so special. Anybody can give money, but on a day like Community Thanksgiving Day, it is about sharing a piece of yourself that weaves you into the fabric of the community.
We’re still looking for volunteers to help cook either a turkey or a ham, and Melissa has created a sign-up sheet where you can list what side or dessert you plan to bring (although you ultimately can bring whatever you want regardless of whether you signed up or not). https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xcVyvyH5DG_bC1Uv9NTrKIWLe4RUOOXq4ugzIKjwirA/edit?usp=sharing
Please plan on joining us at D’Fuskies at the County Landing, at the southern end of Haig Point Road. We start promptly at 1:00, and the buffet line waits for no one, so if you are bringing a dish, please get there a few minutes earlier. Ultimately, however, the most important thing to bring to the festivities is you, so come and be a part of the best day to be on this beautiful island.
Peace and blessings – Pastor Aaron