By: Tom Zart

THE FIRST THANKSGIVINGThe Pilgrims held the first ThanksgivingAt Plymouth in October 1621.The bitter winter of 1620, was overWith a loss of many father, mother, daughter or son.Life for survivors was much better nowAs a good harvest improved what was rationedSettlers enjoyed good health and prosperityAs homes were raised from the logs they fashioned.They walked unafraid and safely in the woodsFor they had made peace with the Indians.After the signing a long-lasting treatyNatives and Pilgrims shared the land as friends.Sending four men to shoot waterfowl and wild turkeysThe Pilgrims decreed a holiday of good fortuneA chief was invited who brought 90 bravesAnd five deer to increase the portion.It was an open-air roast and festivalHeld along the north bank of Town Brook.Where there were games of skill, chance and danceWhile everyone gorged on the feast they cooked.From then on Thanksgiving spread through the coloniesThough each region chose its own date.Till in 1789 president Washington proclaimedNovember 26 a day to give thanks and celebrate.The theme of Thanksgiving has always been the same.Though its date has changed many times.A day for giving and remembering the less fortunateExpressing thankfulness with our prayers, hearts and minds.It is our duty as a nation to acknowledge providenceOf Almighty God, and to obey his will.To be grateful for his blessings, and protectionAs we humbly partake in the tables we fill.THANKSGIVINGIt's a time of plenty and a time for prayer, A time for families to gather and share.It's a time to remember those pilgrims past, A time to celebrate life, while it last.As we bow our heads around the table,With turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Before we feast we’ll thank our LordFor the blessings of the year gone by.Old Jack Frost is freezing on the windows, As outside the bitter wind blows. While inside there's a red, hot fire,Which welcomes and warms both hearts and souls.By Tom Zart

THE FIRST THANKSGIVING
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