Five Kernels of Corn

Mary's First Thanksgiving: An Inspirational Story of Gratefulnesstells about a young immigrant girl's struggle to be thankful during her family's first Thanksgiving in America.  Food is scarce, and she has yet to find a friend.  She doesn't feel there is much for which to be grateful.

Her father tells her the story of the Pilgrims' struggle when they first came to America.  He shares the legend of the five kernels:  After the Thanksgiving feast, the winter was hard and there wasn't much food.  They survived on small amounts of food and were given a few kernels of corn per day.  Years later, the colonists would place five kernels of corn on their plates.  This helped them remember when they were so hungry and without food.  They would give a blessing for each kernel of corn.

Kernel 1: Bounty and beauty of fall
Kernel 2: Love for each other
Kernel 3: Love for family
Kernel 4: Friendship
Kernel 5: Freedom to worship God

You need:
Five kernels of corn
or 5 pieces of candy corn

1) Place the corn on plates at dinner.  Take turns sharing thanks for five blessings!

This tradition was new to me, but it is a wonderful reminder to give thanks!

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