a poem in my pocket

 
First year at Plimoth was

difficult— disease, death

Mayflower left survivors

grateful for Squanto’s help

Pilgrims and Wampanoag

gathered for three day feast

thankful to gracious God for

gifts of harvest and friendship

photo by lynn

Fresh venison, wild turkey,

goose cooked with herbs

shellfish, herring, lobster

colorful corn and squash

Public prayers of blessing

psalms sung, jigs danced

leapfrog, blind man’s bluff

target shooting contests

Lincoln set 4th Thursday

of November as annual

holy day to give thanks

to God for his providence

Future presidents would

pardon one lucky turkey

as loyal Americans join

to give thanks for football