Editor’s note: Morrison, IL, author and poet, Patricia Pessman, recalled childhood Thanksgivings.
Pessman explained, “This poem was inspired by my Thanksgiving memories as a child–memories I still cherish today, some 60 years later. It was a very special day for me, as our family–brother Dave, sister Janet, Dad, and myself–would travel to the small town of Chadwick, Illinois, to celebrate the day with my mother’s side of the family, the Wagenechts. My mother had passed away from cancer when I was only 13 months old. So, this day was a chance to “connect” with my mother, who I never knew, through her relatives. I believe this is why that day felt so “special” for me. I “felt” my mother’s love through them.
“Family and that feeling of “love” is what Thanksgiving is all about. Do you know that Thanksgiving is the only National holiday that was established with nothing more in mind than celebrating our blessings with our families and loved ones. So, be blessed as you count your blessings and ponder what Thanksgiving means to you.”
“A Child’s Thanksgiving”
Thanksgiving at Grandpa’s is always special.
And I know one reason why:
‘Cause that’s when we carve that turkey bird
And eat Grandma’s pumpkin pie!
But–it’s not just the food–that tastes SO good,
NO! There’s a LOT more to it than that.
It’s about a “warm feeling” I get deep down
Because of where I’m at!
And, I’m not sure that I can tell you why
Or put into words the REAL reason
Why Grandpa’s house always feels SO special
During the Thanksgiving Season.
It might be the twinkle in Grandpa’s eyes,
Or the warmth from Grandma’s, BIG hug.
But–whatever it is–I can sure tell you this
It gives my heart a REAL TUG!
So, I just gotta say, it’s my favorite day!
And not ’cause there’s turkey and pie!
It’s about that “feeling!” My Grandma calls it LOVE!
I think THAT’S the REAL reason why!