Happy Thanksgiving - A Poem For You!

Over the years that I have lived
there has been a gift offered up.
The gift of prose from a pen of one
that I knew and loved so well.
He was my Dad, He wrote the words
to fit the occasion, from graduation
to wedding days. We knew that in the
mornings leading up to any big day
Dad would be up early, pen in hand
to craft some words that would last.
Words that would speak to the heart.

Three years ago that pen went silent.

We have done all we could to preserve
his words. Mom made a book that is full
of his poetry. But the silence of the pen
hurts today as we are about to celebrate
another Thanksgiving without an original.

So...I thought I would give it a try.



The ocean raged and the people wept,
what were they thinking? Leaving comforts
of home, coming to this ocean so cruel, so cold
their tangled thoughts were filled with hurts.

As the ship listed and tossed them about,
hope faded for those in its fragile grasp.
It would seem that leaving all the known
was foolish and soon they would pass.

Alas, they cried, as the land they saw,
tears of joy for the hope was renewed.
But what was this? Not sandy beaches
as they had expected, nor waters of blue!

"We'll make the best of it!" was the rally,
"We will live on the ship and build
us a town in which we can live.
It won't take us long", the story was told.

Months passed and many had gone,
home to meet Jesus, while others remained
making the best of a hard winter there,
Honoring those whose memories brought pain.

Gratitude flooded their hearts one fateful day
as they realized the worst seemed to be done.
They had survived through sickness and hunger.
God had kept them, yes, He was the One.

For three joyous days they honored
their King, the King of their hearts.
With scarce food, fellowship, and love
for the joy that only peace can impart.

With unexpected friends who had offered a hand
in the patient teaching and knowledge that
would allow them to thrive in this place.
A place of hope, of freedom... at last.

The year we have just come through was
tougher than most, for the money has
dried up say the folks in the know
But the King of our hearts still IS...

Forever faithful and loving us so.
Bringing food for our tables,
Hope for our hearts that cannot be
stolen, for we know that HE is able!

As we enjoy a day with family and friends,
may we ever remember the King of our hearts
The One who has made us and cares for us well.
May we sing praise to Him and His message impart.

May God richly bless you and keep you this year,
as you serve Him and love those around you
so dear, shining love in a world so in need.
I thank God for His goodness...ever true!



O.k. so those of you who are lit teachers...please be kind...
It is a message from the heart...not the best pentameter...
With love, on Thanksgiving Day 2008!
Happy Thanksgiving to You and Yours.

Becky K.