There's a house in the country long miles away -
and it seems like a lifetime ago -
where our loved ones would gather on Thanksgiving Day
amid fields often "feathered" with snow.
We'd see the chimney's smoke curl to the skies
as we journeyed around the last bend;
the lights in the windows were welcoming eyes
and the porch like the arm of a friend!
Then mother and father, a little more grey,
would gaily greet all at the door,
and the house would soon echo with children at play
and a family together once more!
The aromas of turkey and dressing would fill
the rooms with their glorious smell
and we knew we would dine "divinely" until
our lives were replenished as well!
But first, heads were bowed for a moment of prayer
that father would lovingly give
in thanks for the blessings that all of us share
in this land where we freely may live!
As the hours sped by, and the flames flickered low
from the logs in the warm fireplace,
we knew it was time to reluctantly go
and we kissed every dear person's face!
And mother and father would wave from the door
as we "honked" last goodbyes from our cars,
then started the drive to our own homes once more
with our memories bright as the stars!
Now it seems that sometimes we can actually see
the light from their mansion above;
may the Family of Man some day be as free
to feast at God's banquet of love!
~ John C. Bonser
