Thanksgiving - A Lost Holiday
by Kay Deardorff
Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving?
What is it anyway?
Seems something has been lost
in this special holiday.
Our minds are filled with pumpkins
and treats for Halloween.
And next we're hearing sleighbells -
It's Christmas on the scene!
The stores are filled with items
to deck the halls with joy.
Earlier and earlier
are Santa's elves employed.
But wait! There's a small section
of cards upon the rack.
They mostly talk of "Turkey Day",
quite humorous, in fact.
Maybe we should stop to think
what the Pilgrims would say today.
Would they be glad they suffered much
to find a better way?
Though lives were lost, they were determined
they would find a land,
Where they could worship God in freedom,
for Him, they made a stand.
Their unity with native people
should speak to us today.
As we, too, share with one another,
great lessons come our way.
But where's the prayer of thankfulness
once shared by young and old?
Thanking God for precious blessings
the Pilgrims' lives unfold.
Does gratitude still swell our hearts
each time our flag we see?
Rememb'ring those who went before
with a vision to be free.
If our children are found lacking
true Thanksgiving in their hearts,
Perhaps the blame should fall on us
if we have not done our part.
This year as fam'ly and friends draw near
to celebrate this time,
Give praise unto the King of kings,
His mercy we will find.
And don't forget when gathered 'round
a feast you will partake,
To thank the One who gave it all,
it's Him we celebrate.
