The first Thanksgiving was celebrated after almost half of the pilgrims had died because of the harsh first winter.Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday in the shadow of this country's darkest time - the civil war. Here's his words:
"The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come…the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.
It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States…to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwells in the Heavens.” October 3, 1863
Isn't it true that tough times can help us realize how much we have to be thankful for?
This certainly has been a very tough year for us, but we are so very thankful for friends, family, church, life, breath. Most of all we are thankful to God for His indescribable gift, Jesus Christ.
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