I don't know if there is a way to go back to the simpler life; a time removed from anger and strife of today's world, a day of just being thankful to be together with caring folks, family and friends.

If there is a way to start - it's Thanksgiving Day.

Through my little girl eyes, Thanksgiving was Dad carving the biggest, turkey-bird ever seen.

"Drumsticks belong to the twins," Dad announced. My twin brother, Earl whispered, "We get the best part."
Boy, did we ever feel special!

In a family of five kids and a Great Depression there was no such thing as "dibs" for special foods except Thanksgiving. In childlike focus "I got it" -- Thanksgiving Day is being thankful for a turkey leg, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. Of course!

Aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and dear Grandma, arrived all promising to get together more often next year - and seldom did. Our house was crowded and noisy, yet full of warmth that felt like one giant hug.

During the World War II years, families invited servicemen and women on holidays. Mother always found another plate and food.

She believed her faith in scripture, "Such as you do unto the least of these my children you do it unto me." Mom set a high standard to live by and I'm thankful.

The Pilgrims and Indians held their first unofficial dinner of celebration and thanks although, it was not until November 1, 1782 when the Continental Congress Thanksgiving Proclamation was written and the holiday became official.

The Proclamation reads in part; "Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, to observe and request the several States to interpose their authority in appointing and commanding the observation of Thursday the twenty-eight day of November as a day of solemn Thanksgiving to God for all his mercies."

George Washington's 1789 Thanksgiving Proclamation reads in part; "Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:" Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next ..."

Government formalized the practice started by Pilgrim leaders and the Wampanoag Indian Tribe in what is now the States of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. History questioned rather Pilgrims would have even survived beyond that first year if Indians had not taught them how to feed themselves.

Holidays alone can be one of life's very depressing experiences, especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Even the sounds and sight of people with family and friends celebrating is a hard one to swallow when you're alone.

No one should be alone Thanksgiving &/or Christmas, yet they are - right where we live. Gathering together renews strength and replenishes the soul.

So, one year I led a group that put together a Thanksgiving potluck dinner using the Masonic Lodge that the Mason's graciously donated.

One by one volunteers (on their own time) city employees, citizens, and business donors brought roast turkey/ham and all the trimmings. Those who would have been alone came -- young families, widows/widowers single folks, and couples left smiling. Volunteer's reward comes in knowing they made a "Happy Day" for someone.

So, I'll remember; the love and hope of that happy young father saying they're expecting a baby girl in March, recall raising my own babies and be so thankful for the amazing adults they've become, give thanks for many blessings, health, family, and friends - and for you who invite me into your home via these printed words, and for Times/News publisher/owner Jerry Robinson and his lovely wife, Elsbeth, for giving our communities this voice in print.

Maybe we can't get back those peaceful times. War seems inevitable and peace a dream far away.

Yet, we can know happiness is found being thankful, sharing our blessings, caring for others - and eating a cold Thanksgiving turkey sandwich before bedtime. It's pretty simple.

Today's Thought: "If you want to gather honey, don't kick over the beehive." (Dale Carnegie)