I am really excited to shared this poem, Thanksgiving Day, with you on, well… Thanksgiving Day. It was written by Auburn, Indiana author, Frank Carleton Nelson and appeared in his 1933 compilation called The Evening Hour.
As I shared earlier in the week, I first learned about Nelson when I was writing, Legendary Locals of Auburn. He quickly became one of my favorite subjects of research. I really like his prose and simple style. He provides relatable scenarios that harken back to glory days of yesteryear.
Also, as is easily observed from his work, Nelson was a man of God. The more I read his work, I think he and I are kindred spirits in many ways. Even as he rose to fame on WGN radio and often called “The Radio Poet,” Nelson revered the habit of lifetime of learning and growing.
He was a life refiner, on purpose.
Thanksgiving Day was written by Auburn, Indiana author, Frank Carleton Nelson. It appeared in his 1933 compilation The Evening Hour, reminding us that, though we have much to be thankful for, there are many who could use a hand up. It’s our duty to recognize and care for one another.
Thanksgiving Day by Frank Carleton Nelson
I wouldn’t write a single word, if I the power possessed,
To under rate the wondrous fives with which our land is blessed; The day is ours for giving thanks and this we all should do,
For on this day, officially our gratitude is due, But let us not forget the fact, as now we bow the head,
‘Tis often just in mockery that many prayers are said. With millions out of work today and tables scant or bare,
A greater duty now is ours than merely “offer prayer” with millions driven from their homes and forced upon the street,
a greater task is ours to do than thank the Lord and eat; Appalling is the sight indeed that’s now before our eyes,
and as in war this land of ours to action must arise; We’ve heard the call, we now must act, it’s up to us to give,
if this, the greatest land on earth, can ever hope to live. So let us pray Thanksgiving Day and thank the Lord above,
for all He’s sent of blessings great and happiness and love; And in our prayer let’s promise Him to lend a helping hand,
and thus preserve forevermore the glory of our land; With every power and thanks let’s give a solemn service vow,
for empty is the prayer indeed without the action now; ‘Tis not the time to question why or ask Him what to do,
for naught by action with our prayers will bring our nation through..
Love Thy Neighbor
And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” – Mark 12:30-31
This poem, Thanksgiving Day by Frank Carleton Nelson, appeared in The Evening Hour (1933) published by the Indiana State Forum in Auburn, Indiana. If you liked it, go ahead and share it on social media.