Proclamation of Thanksgiving 1863 By President Abraham Lincoln "The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the  blessings of fruitful years and healthful skies... no human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things.  They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. 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. a day of Thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. and [to] fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine Purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union." May you all enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving today. Sharon Kern Co. Volunteer