Itadakimasu

I learned a new word this week when I went to tea with a Japanese longtime friend. When our waiter brought our food, she murmured, "Itadakimasu." Itadakimasu, a Japanese word said before eating, roughly translates as "I humbly receive." It's an expression of gratitude for the meal and for those who prepared it.

In all the whirlwind of these days that one word — said so quietly, so matter of factly — touched me deeply.

I’m grateful for so much lately. I’m trying to “wear gratitude like a cloak” (to quote Rumi) to let it be what I wrap myself in, to let it be what I show first to the world. Itadakimasu.
 
Grace and peace, 

Anita Sorenson
Pastor for Spiritual Formation