Thanksgiving

by Cheryl Merrick

Not being the commercial heavy weight
of its December cousin,
    Thanksgiving gets pushed aside.

Even before its moment arrives,
     its leaves, pumpkins and corn stalks
     are replaced with wreathes and bells,

and its homey refrains of
    “Over the river and through the wood”
     replaced with the blaring of “Jingle Bells”.

Though businesses urge us into holiday buying,
     this day of family and giving thanks
     enduringly holds its place in our hearts.