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The Last Thankful Thursday in January 2019

Istijlál (Majesty), 13 Sulṭán (Sovereignty) 175 B.E. - Thursday, January 31, 2019

On the last Thankful Thursday in January 2019, I contemplate the beauty of a cloudy afternoon. The breeze is nonexistent, and the air is cool enough for a coat when going outside, but warm enough to leave the front door open for some fresh air. The Las Vegas weather is pleasant, the temperatures are in the high fifties or middle sixties. It is not too hot or too cold.

On the last Thankful Thursday in January 2019, I anticipate the upcoming festivals and Holy Days. In February, Ayyam-I-Ha begins at sunset on February 25 and ends at sunset on March 1. After Ayyam-I-Ha come 'Ala', Loftiness, the nineteen-day Fast. Baha'is in good health, who don't take medication, fast between sunrise and sunset from the age of 15 to the age of 70. I'm not required to Fast, but that doesn't mean I can't read the prayer Baha'u'llah revealed for Fasting. I enjoy reading the prayers and do so every year during the fast.

On the last Thankful Thursday in January 2019, I contemplate gratitude. I am grateful for the inspiration of the Baha'i Feast and Holy Days. I am grateful for the inspiration of the 200th anniversary of the Birth of the Bab, and the poems I will write in celebration of the event.