Speaker 1: Twas the day of Thanksgiving, and all through the house
every creature was hungry, yes, even the mouse. The kitchen
was humming, the table prepared with visions of turkey and
feasts to be shared. The children sat restless. I'm bored,
they all cried, while dreaming of potatoes and rolls and
warm pies. But Mom and her apron a sight to behold,
had just realized the oven was cold. We toiled, we tinkered,
we struck match after match, but nothing was working. The
flame would not catch. Thanksgiving is ruined. Mom dabbed at
her eyes. There'll be no turkey, no rolls, no warm pies.
When in the front yard there arose such a clatter.
I sprang from my chair to see what was the matter?
Away to the window. No caution I took, but peered
into the street with a curious look. Footsteps crunched on
the new fallen leaves. Was it reindeer foxes? A band
of pie thieves? When what, to my wondering eyes should
appear but a group of our neighbors, old friends, and family,
most dear, with joyous laughter and plates filled to the brim.
They beckoned toward us and bade us join in No
one's plate shall be empty, none cups shall be dry.
Come fill your bellies. No need to be shy. But
how could we join them with nothing to bring, not
a crumb, not a morsel to this banquet fit for
a king. Don't be silly, We have plenty to share.
Your gift is your presence. Come pull up a chair,
so join them. We did well into the night. We
ate and we drank till our belts grew quite tight.
We shared stories and laughter till the stars lent their glow,
and eyes began to droop, our voices dropped low. But
before we could leave, one thing must be done. A
toast to our hosts, who gave more than fun, to
our family, our friends, and all we hold dear to
your spirit of giving that guides you all year. It's
more than one day, more than one night. It's the
love in your heart and commitment to what's right. So
treasure your village, whether they're blood or good friends, for
these are the people who God often sends. And don't
wait for the season of thanks to come around, but
look for togetherness and it will always be found. From
the Warren family to all of you, Happy Thankgiving