Every time I feast at Thanksgiving, I think of Norman Rockwell’s famous painting, Freedom From Want. I’ve always had a copy of a poster of the famous painting, which I partially photographed and posted on this sight. I apologize for it being cropped. It certainly does not represent the value of the painting and is only shown here for readers information and education.

However, looking at the photo reminds me of my youth. It so represents the American spirit of Thanksgiving where the smell of fruit and pumpkin pies resting comfortably on the their cooling racks mingle with the wafting aroma of roasting turkey, gravy, and m-m-m-m-m dressing.

“Please pass the ‘tatoes,” I remember saying one Thanksgiving. I said it loud enough so that I could be heard over the cacophony of chatter from all the relatives and visitors sitting around. I aimed my conversation toward Uncle Eulen at the end of table, who seemingly was taking a more than usual portion of those magnificent mashed goodies. The serving platter still had several people to pass before they got to me. I remember he looked up and paused. Then with a look of regret, he placed the last enormous spoonful back in the serving bowl. By the time it got to me, there was just enough left to top off my already full plate. All was well on that Thanksgiving day.

No matter the problems or troubles that beset the family throughout the year, this was the one day that all was set aside for a feeling of thankfulness. It was a day to count our blessings, and there was always more of those than not.

So thoughtfully and carefully did Mr. Rockwell paint this Thanksgiving picture. Hardly, have I ever seen an artist so accurately depict an emotion or create such a memorable occasion. I know of no other artist that could paint the American spirit as this artist did. For the many memories he left with us, I tip my pilgrim hat. What a great American he was.