"Thanksgiving Poem"

Dad pulled into the driveway,
gravel beneath our wheels,
parked behind the Studebaker,
we could smell the fixin' meal;
Mom handed us a covered dish,
for us to carry inside,
to place on Grandma's table,
who stood with arms open wide.

There was always a kiss and hug,
For all who walked through the door,
We kids wanted to run and play,
Mom said, "remember what we're here for";
then the whole family would gather,
uncles, aunts, cousins, and such,
and we'd wait for grandma's prayer,
to add the finishing touch.

"Dear Father, we thank you,
for this time we spend together,
for those who cannot be with us today,
still keep us closely ever;
bless this food and family,
and may we never forget,
that you have given us each other,
we're forever in your debt"

I didn't understand her prayer then,
but years later it comes home,
just how important family is,
now that I'm older grown;
and so this Thanksgiving,
in the middle of my prayers,
I thank God for my family,
both at home and everywhere.