Ten Fingers Touching is a fairy tale for grownups. It tells the story of how two lovers, Martak, the Master of the Forest, and Marianna, a beautiful maiden, are drawn into the epic struggle between Good and Evil. Martak is the victim of two assassination attempts. Marianna is abducted by a rogue knight; the Princess is manipulated by a disguised destructive force. Evil appears in many unanticipated forms, but in fairy tales good ultimately triumphs over evil.

The First Thanksgiving

This is the week of Thanksgiving, an American tradition that began in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians shared the bounty of the Fall harvest. Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday in 1863 by President Lincoln, three months after the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg, when the war’s outcome became more certain and he sought to unite the nation.

Awaiting the arrival of family

Families travel far and wide to be together on Thanksgiving. As we gather for festive dinners with our families and celebrate the blessings in our lives, let’s also remember the world-wide victims of the evils of terrorism. Having a moment of silence for those who tragically lost their lives makes the gathering of loved ones all the more precious. In a world with uncertain outcomes, use the element of surprise to do something good for someone else. Give an unexpected hug or tell another that you admire him or her. Send gifts. Volunteer or make a donation. Share food or medical supplies. There are boundless ways to give thanks, to do good and to offer prayers for peace on our planet.

Best wishes to all for a Happy Thanksgiving!