God, help us live the thankful way
In spite of somber strife.
Oh, make us mindful on this day
That You have given life —-
The life that has more good than ill,
More hope than dark despair,
More kindly warmth than bitter chill,
More happiness than care.
The thankful way can find the plus
In all we must endure —-
From that which plagues and sorrows us,
It can distill the pure —-
The patience born of failing health,
The smile washed clean by tears,
The blessings richer far than wealth,
The love displacing fears.
The thankful way—true praise of God—
Was felt in Pilgrim hearts
For harvest gathered from the sod
And faith that it imparts.
May we who share far greater gain
Too feel the thankful way
And make that feeling very plain
On this Thanksgiving Day.
Margaret Rorke (1915-2000) wrote poetry that was regularly published on the editorial pages of The Saginaw News (2,824 different poems in all). From 1975 through 1990, approximately 400 of her poems were featured in Judd Arnett’s column in The Detroit Free Press, and her poetry appeared in countless other settings throughout her lifetime.
The digital edition of her 4,000 published poems as well as her three books of poetry have recently been added to the Library of Congress's collection of American poetry.
Download or print any poem from this website and email or send it to friends or family members. It will brighten their day!
Hang up a poem that inspires you somewhere in your home where you’ll see it often, and it will bring you joy every day!
Many of Margaret’s poems tickle the funny poem, and your children are sure to enjoy them. Make them a bedtime read!
Margaret Rorke published over 4,000 poems in her lifetime. If you are looking for a poem on a particular topic, please fill out the form here, and her daughter, Peg, and son, Bob, will be in touch with what they can find.