Report from Ohio, U.S.A.

A Meaningful
Thanksgiving Dinner

[Cincinnati ] On November 23, Thanksgiving Day, approximately 200 people at a homeless shelter in Cincinnati were served a delicious, first rate Thanksgiving dinner, which contained all the elements of a traditional Thanksgiving meal - except that it was completely vegetarian. The dishes, all hand-prepared, were abundant in both variety and quantity: Everything from veggie turkey to mashed potatoes and gravy, spring rolls, baked beans, corn, pumpkin pies and apple pies were served. Combining efforts for four consecutive years in putting together this meal were the Midwest Centers of The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association - Ohio and Indiana.

Since it was unusually cold that day, with the temperature dropping to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, hot tea and coffee were also served to warm up everyone at the shelter. Furthermore, each person was given a gift package containing a beautiful, brand new sweater, along with a bag of candies. Everyone was very satisfied and happy. Not only did they get plenty to eat, but they also received gifts that they did not expect.

Fellow initiates share God's divine love with the homeless of Cincinnati, Ohio on Thanksgiving Day.

Normally, the people at the homeless shelter are given old clothes that have been contributed by other organizations. This was the first time they had all gotten brand new sweaters, with each person free to select the size that fit them.

During our time at the shelter, everyone took part in the warm and friendly atmosphere. Many people wanted to have their pictures taken with our group. Many also showed their appreciation by hugging us and wishing us lots of blessings and rewards from God.

When it came time for us to go, the members of The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association and the homeless people all felt reluctant to say good-bye. The smiles on the people's faces were a warm reminder that serving others is really serving God, because we all truly are God inside.