"Thanksgiving" by James Whitcomb Riley and Story Round-Up

Thanksgiving by James Whitcomb Riley (1849-1916)


Let us be thankful--not only because
Since last our universal thanks were told
We have grown greater in the world's applause,
And fortune's newer smiles surpass the old--

But thankful for all things that come as alms
From out the open hand of Providence:--
The winter clouds and storms---the summer calms--
The sleepless dread--the drowse of indolence.

Let us be thankful--thankful for the prayers
Whose gracious answers were long, long delayed,
That they might fall upon us unawares,
And bless us, as in greater need, we prayed.

Let us be thankful for the loyal hand
That love held out in welcome to our own,
When love and only love could understand
The need of touches we had never known.

Let us be thankful for the longing eyes
That gave their secret to us as they wept,
Yet in return found, with a sweet surprise,
Love's touch upon their lids, and, smiling, slept.

And let us, too, be thankful that the tears
Of sorrow have not all been drained away,
That through them still, for all the coming years,
We may look on the dead face of To-day.



Wilmington teacher lived for her students

A woman whose life truly reflected her high regard for an excellent education.

http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/16539065-423/wilmington-teacher-lived-for-her-students.html


Shelter prepares holiday meal for dogs

HART (Homeless Animal Rescue Team of Illinois) is very thankful this year for its new adoption center and shared that joyful gratitude with its canine clients.

http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/16631551-423/joliet-shelter-prepares-holiday-meal-for-dogs.html


JJC to host career fair for manufacturing jobs

A career fair for those whose talents like in manufacturing or industrial trades

http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/news/16632008-418/jjc-to-host-career-fair-for-manufacturing-jobs.html


Writing their stories can often aid abuse victims in their healing

Personal accounts and research point to the therapeutic benefits of expressive writing.

http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/16650136-423/writing-their-stories-can-often-aid-abuse-victims-in-their-healing.html


Showing off their wares

A friendly, low-key event that combines the best of holiday parties and bazaars.

http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/16676029-423/showing-off-their-wares.html