Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation

The following are excerpts from Abraham Lincoln's 

1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation:

"The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings

 of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, 

others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they

 can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible 

to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.

...It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, 

and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice

 by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens..."

Happy Thanksgiving to you and to your loved ones!

Enjoy celebrating together as we appreciate one another 

and the many ways in which our Lord has blessed us!