It used to be called Columbus Day but now is known as Indigenous People Day. My husband sketched this piece in watercolor pencil when he participated in a rendezvous of early settlers in America. He was acting as an 1800s traveling artist. He had great respect for Native Americans. He studied their art and many of his pieces reflect their heritage. Our country is one of many ethnicities, including those who first inhabited this land.

In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue
He had three ships and left from Spain through sunshine wind and rain,
He sailed by night he sailed by day; he used the stars to find his sway.
A compass also helped him know how to find the way to go.
Ninety sailors were on board; some men worked while others snored.
Then the workers went to sleep, and others watched the ocean deep
Day after day they looked for land; they dreamed of trees and rocks and sand.
October 12 their dream came true. You never saw a happier crew!

This old poem, authored by unknown, was recited as an annual occurrence in schools across America when I was a student. The thought of 90 men and three ships sailing uncharted waters always amazed me. They had no clue where they would end up, only that they were about to start an adventure that would open more of the world to those seeking a new way of life. In that time, we also heard mixed stories about the native Americans. Those who inherited their land from their own ancestors, who probably discovered it as well. I appreciate the plight of these first people who worked and lived in the land before immigrants started pushing their way through its beautiful mountains, rivers, valleys and forests. We see a similar intrusion today as more and more people continue to enter America illegally, looking for a better life.

We can change the names of holidays. We can tear down statues of famous explorers and those who helped to build the country we live in today. We cannot change history. It is there with all its blemishes and shame. The atrocities towards indigenous people cannot be forgotten. What I pray is that God will help us work together as American people today in a way that honors Him and gives glory where it is deserved. Even the history books don’t tell us the full story, but we can find truth in God’s Word and start there. I thank God for allowing me to live in this land. In spite of all of its problems, it is still the best place to be right now.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!