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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
I love Thanksgiving! Do you have anything for which you're thankful on this special day? We are blessed to live in the finest part of the finest country in the world. If we don't think we are fortunate, all we have to do is look at other people in other lands and circumstances to know we're blessed.
As the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony faced their second winter in 1621, gratitude filled their hearts. Their efforts to raise barley and peas had been disappointing, and they would have faced starvation. But thanks to an Indian named Squanto, whom Gov. William Bradford called a "special instrument of God," they were able to harvest 20 acres of corn. Squanto also helped the settlers keep peace with neighboring tribes.
So when it was decided to celebrate the harvest and thank God for bounteous blessings, Gov. Bradford sent a messenger to Chief Massosoit, inviting the Indians to feast.
Massasoit brought 90 men with him, and they celebrated for three days. Squanto, who spoke English, helped the Indians and Pilgrims communicate, and together, they all enjoyed the festivities to the fullest.
Thanksgiving sets in motion a chain reaction that transforms people all around us — including ourselves.
"For the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped,For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped,For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb,For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home.
For the trade and the skill and the wealth in our land,For the cunning and strength of the workingman's hand,For the good that our artists and poets have taught,For the friendship that hope and affection have brought.
For the homes that with purest affection are blest,For the season of plenty and well-deserved rest,For our country extending from sea unto sea:The land that is known as the "Land of the Free."
FOR THESE THINGS I AM THANKFUL.
This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank. I'm speaking on business.
