One effective method of maximizing profits in business is called leveraging. This is a technique whereby a small financial investment is used to multiply the potential of capital used in a transaction. Interestingly, the technique may be applied to non-business undertakings as well. Projects like spreading joy and promoting understanding between people. Such is the power wielded by the common Ursinus Theodorus, aka the Teddy Bear.

There are few things as awe-inspiring as the contemplation of the night sky. The attempt to absorb the impact of a panoply of stars, to internalize the peace of a golden harvest moon rising over a tranquil lake, or to interpret the stately dance of greens and blues and reds over the Alaskan tundra seems to leave us well short of comprehending what we are seeing. Scientific study has its rewards, certainly, but for the average person, a face-to-face encounter with our senses wide open to the stimuli of raw, unfiltered nature is ultimately more soul-satisfying.

Thanksgiving is a time for expressing appreciation for the blessings we have received, but it is also a time for sharing with family, friends, and on occasion, total strangers. There may be a bittersweet note introduced when a beloved face is no longer present at the table. But there is still cause to be thankful as memories linger on, recalling the good times and rekindling the warmth of the times spent together.