Allison's Corner

A Little Bit Of Turkey And A Lot Of Thanksgiving

By Allison W. Hartley

I grew up in Michigan, so I love the cold weather ... the only thing missing is the white stuff!

Although I'm not much of a shopper, I went out with my two oldest daughters over the weekend and started tackling my ever growing Christmas list. Normally, I try and stay as far away from the malls as possible, but I have to say that it was most enjoyable. I love the sights and sounds of Christmas and they are definitely in high gear already this season.

I had the opportunity to attend the Old Savannah City Mission's Thanksgiving Feast held in Forsyth Park last Saturday. I was blessed beyond words by all the those who served unselfishly, by those who were being served, and the fellowship and understanding between both. A perfect example of giving and thanksgiving. Not something that can be taught or bought, only felt. Turkey is just poultry without the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving ~ I am always aware, and am always quick to acknowledge how blessed I've been. How unworthy I am and how thankful I am all at the same time. Not just at this time of year, but daily.

Among my list of what I'm thankful for ...

• I awoke this morning and opened my eyes

• All three of my girls, my third was a surprise

• My four furry dogs, each one like a child

• The youngest, the Beagle, she's pretty wild

• She's torn up everything, including my couch

• But her tails always wagging, she's never a grouch

• For Steve, my partner and my spouse

• We don't have much, but we own our house

• My needs, they are met, miraculously no doubt

• Kind words and their power, it's what life's about

• My mother, my friend, who this year almost died

• I begged and I prayed to my God, while I cried

• He healed her, He did, almost as good as new

• He did more than that, He brought my daughter back too

• My brothers and sisters and their families

• For answered prayer found on bended knees

• My daddy, my aunts and uncles and such

• My granny especially, she loves me so much

• My closest friends who know me the best

• And love me anyway, and all of the rest

• For words on newsprint in The Spirit each week

• The privileges we have and the freedom to speak

• For each and every man and woman who defend

• Our great nation, our freedoms they constantly tend

• For answered prayers and unanswered too

• For all that God does, and all that He'll do

• For all the precious gifts He sends my way

• For the greatest gift, Jesus, every day

I hope you all will take the time to feel, in your heart, down deep, thanksgiving. Wishing you and your family a blessed one. I am especially thankful for each and every one of you, our readers and advertisers.