Thanksgiving is almost here. This year seems strange. Certain Thanksgiving traditions are missing. Much loved loved family and friends may be absent. This is hard.
A long-time friend sends encouragement. She shared the words and music of the Shaker tune “Simple Gifts”. She also sent the poem “Thanksgiving Day”. She recalls her grandma reading this poem each year for Thanksgiving.
Perhaps these words and music will bring a bit of comfort and peacefulness.
The words for “Simple Gifts” Traditional/Shaker Hymn
"Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free ’tis the gift to come down where you ought to be And when we find ourselves in the place just right ‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gained To bow and to bend we shan’t be ashamed To turn, turn will be our delight ‘Till by turning, turning we come round right.
‘Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free ’tis the gift to come down where you ought to be And when we find ourselves in the place just right ‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight."
Following is the poem read by my friend’s grandma each Thanksgiving:
“Thanksgiving Day”
By Lydia Maria Child
"Over the river, and through the wood, To grandfather's house we go; The horse knows the way To carry the sleigh Through the white and drifted snow.
Over the river, and through the wood— Oh, how the wind does blow! It stings the toes And bites the nose As over the ground we go.
Over the river, and through the wood, To have a first-rate play. Hear the bells ring "Ting-a-ling-ding", Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day!
Over the river, and through the wood Trot fast, my dapple-gray! Spring over the ground, Like a hunting-hound! For this is Thanksgiving Day.
Over the river, and through the wood, And straight through the barn-yard gate. We seem to go Extremely slow,— It is so hard to wait!
Over the river and through the wood— Now grandmother's cap I spy! Hurrah for the fun! Is the pudding done? Hurrah for the pumpkin-pie!"
This poem is in the public domain.
Courage for us all. Blessings during this Thanksgiving Season.
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1 ESV
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