Poet's Platform Column | 22 Nov 07 by Janet Nesler | The Scioto Voice | Wheelersburg, Ohio

I Give Thanks How can I express my thanks? Ah, let me count the ways: God has showered me with His blessings for which I give Him praise. I thank Him for my family and for my many friends; I thank Him for His goodness and for His love that never ends. I’m thankful for the heritage my parents bequeathed to me: role models of strength and courage, yet tempered with humility. I’m thankful for my country where freedom and liberty endure. I’m thankful for those who fought and died, that these freedoms remain secure. I’m thankful for the majestic mountains and the rolling verdant plains; where the eagle can soar in freedom, where the wind sings its joyous refrains. I’m thankful for the sun and the rain which bring life to Mother Earth. ‘Tho the seasons come—and seasons go, springtime brings new life—new birth. I give thanks to the humble farmer who cultivates the yielding sod. For the bounty of this precious earth— I give thanks to Almighty God! Charles Clevenger New Boston   THANKSGIVNG DAY Walking down the country road, When memories come to mind, Thoughts of all the gatherings, Around Thanksgiving time. When all the family would come by, And the Turkey would be baked, With plenty of tasty Apple pies, And our favorite, Carrot cake. A time of joy and Thanksgiving, For our food and daily bread, Where all our friends and loved ones, In prayer of thanks were led. One by one we all said goodbye, Soon the day would be all gone, Memories and the joy of Thanksgiving, The fellowship of love and home. Nancy Mincer South Shore, KY   Long Ago Memories This time of year I miss going home to hill country To visit Mommy and Daddy, And Aunts and Uncles living close by to see. The Home Place no longer stands, No one around anymore— All gone away to a better place No one to come to the door. I have many memories back then Of Thanksgiving and Christmas times, Around the table with loved ones Embedded forever in my mind. Mommy’s potato salad and custard pie Was always a family prize As I remember back then, Tears well up in my eyes. Those times are gone forever, I’m thankful for two children of my own. Them and great and grand children Bless me where I now call home. Maybell Criswell South Point, OH