Guest blog post by 2021-2022 American Legion Auxiliary National Chaplain Carol T. Robinson 

Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, homemade dinner rolls, and a plethora of desserts. Isn't your mouth watering? Mine sure is!

As we head toward the end of another year, and even in the midst of unimaginable chaos and illness in our country, we ALL have so much to be thankful for.

When we were young, Thanksgiving was usually recognized in our classrooms with the historical narrative of the pilgrims and Native Americans celebrating a good harvest at Plymouth Rock in 1621. It was celebrated off and on until 1789 when U.S. President George Washington issued a proclamation for the special day at the urging of Congress.

President Thomas Jefferson did not observe Thanksgiving, but when Abraham Lincoln became president, he made it a national holiday.

While Thanksgiving is not a religious holiday, it is a time of displaying our personal values to show others love and compassion. And it always seems to be right on time, doesn't it?

Regardless of what we do for a living or our current station in life, we are ready for a break.

Thanksgiving gives us the perfect opportunity to gather with family and our closest friends to share our thankfulness for the abundant blessings we have received.

Of course, it is not uncommon, and in fact, it is a privilege to take this time of the year to help others — people who have far less than we do. For example, we can contribute our time and/or resources to various charitable organizations, providing dinner and shelter for the poor.

Remain mindful that the holidays are a very lonely time for so many people in our country. Keep your ears and eyes open to that. If you know of anyone who is alone during this time, extend a hand, even if you do not know them personally. Just reach out so they know that at least one person has not forgotten them.

If you plan to go over the river and through the woods to Grandmother's house during the holidays, be sure to take some time beforehand to think about your blessings. The smallest ones to the bigger ones — we need to acknowledge them all.

The department chaplains and I wish a happy Thanksgiving to each of you. We hope this holiday season is full of love, gratitude, and delicious, filling food.

Stay blessed!