I am going to put this here, not to thumb noses at anyone- but because this is how I believe people should act- much to the horror of the DUmpmonkiez- in a true Christian fashion this holiday:
For some, Thanksgiving can be a time of frantically putting together a meal fit for a king- Ann D. noticed that too many people were not able to have the dinner that many of us were accustomed to, so she found a way to provide Thanksgiving dinner for those in the community. In 2002 Ann, Norma B. and Clarion C., plus many more volunteers helped make a Thanksgiving meal for people to enjoy that might not otherwise get the traditional dinner or may just need some extra company that day. Every year since then they have provided this blessing to many individuals and families.
The second year the turkeys were donated by an anonymous Donor. That individual has donated turkeys every year since and the Presbyterian Church of Gordon provides the facility for this wonderful event.
Each year the numbers have increased. The first year they served roughly 45 people. The last few years they have averaged around 85, and one year an astonishing 105 people shared this Thanksgiving dinner.
Over the years Ann became ill, but being blessed with faith and love she continued to help with all but one meal. The last year she helped all she could but her dear friend Norma insisted she rest. She suggested that Ann make a list of what she was thankful for this year instead. It went something like this, said Norma: My church and my faith. Dale my husband. My children and grandchildren. All my friends and this community.
Ann helped shed light on what being a community means. Putting her wants aside to help others during the holiday or any other day. This Thanksgiving make your own little list or do something a little extra for someone who might need a blessing. If you need a blessing then come to the Thanksgiving dinner at the Gordon Presbyterian Church on Thanksgiving day at noon.
The dinner my mother started 11 years ago is served free to anyone who attends. They don't need to be a member of the church and we have welcomed other denominations, the homeless, the less fortunate, and all into the doors. We send food home with any who would like it.
My mother passed away this spring of cancer, after fighting for ten years. This last year we had several native Americans come to join us. One of the ladies in the kitchen made a comment that 'these people' showed up and are taking too much food. My mother didn't say a word, but walked out slowly with a cane, sat down with 'these people' and spoke with them. My mother had been a teacher in town for 40 years and knew almost everyone in town. She thanked them for coming and personally helped them fill take away dinners for later- for she knew they 'those people' may not have any other food in their house that evening.
So, this Thanksgiving I will be there, trying to fill my mothers shoes and giving a bit to those who need a bit.
