Echoes from the Wander
24 November 2025
Thanksgiving. An American holiday? I’m still working that out.
In our house, it was simply a gathering of family. Turkey Day. Not a patriotic moment, not a historical reflection. Just a day to get stuffed.
Turkey, ham, too many delicious side dishes washed down with a toast of Cold Duck. And of course, football. All wrapped around giving thanks. No politics, no debates … until the hard stuff surfaced on its own.
I always gave quiet thanks—mostly that we survived another one—and for my grandmother’s rum-soaked orange and raisin cake.
In recent years, it’s become both a day of gratitude and a day of mourning. As I learn more, I find myself asking harder questions about who “we, the people” were—and are—and how we came to tell certain stories so simply.
Politics isn’t my territory and never will be. So I honor that by keeping my reflections personal, not prescriptive. This is just my moment of silence.
Today, my thankfulness stretches toward every moment with my sons, toward finally following my call, and toward you—who listen and read. Thank you. (I’d raise a glass of Cold Duck, but I can’t bring myself to taste it again.) 🤢
If you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope it’s a thoughtful one. I trust it will be.
“Peace comes within the souls of men when they realize their oneness with the universe, and when they realize it is really everywhere.
It is within each one of us.”
~ Black Elk
I believe Black Elk and I would have had long, quiet talks by the fire.
While we’re reflecting, let’s look back at where we wandered last week.
Last week …
A poem inspired by my wanderings into scientific studies about how reading fiction—particularly literary fiction—may encourage the reader’s brain to open more neuro-pathways toward open-mindedness and empathy.
The Muse made it to New Mexico, muttering something about every horizon being another draft. Poetic, as always.
The Star Archive: How Poetry Saved the Sky
Where did this come from? I’m not sure what led me down this path, but I’m grateful it did. Posted last Thursday, it’s the introduction to a new essay series—one I’m particularly excited about. (You’ve heard that before, but it’s still true.) ☺️
Brain Reigns — A mother-poem in the Crone’s Cairn series
Exploring destiny—driven by brain or identity. The brain and theory of mind forever fascinate me. If you want to know what JL Tooker thinks about destiny… this is it.
I’ve re-read these multiple times. It’s okay if you too need a re-do.
What’s headed your way this week?
It's going to be a short week. Thanksgiving. For me and my sons, it's really a two-day tradition. Maybe four days.
So, Tuesday, you’ll see the first essay of the new Star Archive series: The First Astronomers Were Poets. I was just too excited writing it to hold it back for the following week—so early it comes.
Watch for it. I think you’re going to see JL at her finest! (Yikes, did I just jinx myself?)
And Wednesday, naturally, brings Whimsy #29, the conclusion of the Muse’s desert romp. She’s even written a poem for the occasion.
That’s it—short week.
But we’ll get back to business soon thereafter.
Until then, don’t wait for a special day to be thankful. Our cups runneth over with gratitude. We simply need acknowledge it.
—Jennifer
JL Tooker
