In America, this week, there is a huge holiday called Thanksgiving. The history is Pilgrims were having a meal of thanksgiving and because ot the Native American Indians they were able to grow the food in abundance. They were thankful because they were alive!
Thru the years it was just a time to gather after the harvest was brought in and be thankful. It was a presidential proclamation in 1863 It evolved, and in 1941, in America it became an official holiday. It was done to help give our country an economic boost during the depression, and to help Americans remember to be thankful for what we did have. Our lives, freedom and family. It became a time to gather all the family and friends around the table and enjoy the bounty.
Growing up as a Navy brat (daughter of Navy Chief), we were in remote and foreign lands most Novembers. This meant, our home was the hub for Thanksgiving. My parents would make 2 or 3 turkeys and we would host Thanksgiving for the single and unaccompanied sailors stationed with us. It was a time of amazement. To see young men come to our home, so thankful for mash potatoes and stories of their Momma’s stuffing and sweet potato pies. Thanksgiving was a wonderful time.
This year, my baby brother was diagnosed with stage 4 Melanoma Cancer in most of his body. He has had brain surgery, radical radiation, lung collapse, blindness and extensive Chemotherapy. He is on oxygen and fighting to live. I am a woman of faith and believer in prayer and the power of Jesus Christ for the past 25 years. My little brother never wanted to hear of it. This year, my brother asked Jesus into his life and became a believer also. He is also alive!
I am so thankful for this, for years we had a passing hello, exchange of Christmas cards, sometimes a birthday call. I now have a phone full of saved messages that are just my little brother telling me he loves me. I was able to fly out and spend time with him before his brain surgery, and it was like going back in time. A time of innocence and laughter. We laugh on the phone, him snorting oxygen, and we laugh that the hair on his back is finally gone (due to Chemo), but we are so thankful to have each moment.
This November, as many sit around a table full of food and eat more than any person should, look around and perhaps, remember that you really do need the people around you.
Thankful to have JOY unspeakable and Full of Glory
Polly Anne of Alamo
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