I am thankful today and every day
for this time to reflect the joy of
renewal, redemption and restoration,
love, loyalty and freedom,
reasons in every season
to recognize blessings
beyond prosperity,
Having gratitude for life -
no matter what the cost or pain,
to realize peace reigns
in hearts that choose to forgive.

I am honestly appreciative of
friends who have grown with every adversity,
moved ahead after each detour;
who teach the next generation
the importance of loving sacrificially,
shedding light to diminish darkness
in a world where hatred is popular
and death can mean victory or defeat.

Value has enlightened me in glorious
surprises-
I value my elderly friends.
Whose spirits encase wisdom in golden vessels.
Souls will soon disperse,
yet they will stay forever on my heart.
Where each moment is treasured.

The same value holds true
in each precious child who has yet
to be hindered by opinion and can see
in spiritual realms deeper than my dreams.

I am thankful for a freedom to worship,
love and live, to serve and pray,
to stand one's own ground
with a determined steadfastness,
where diversity should be tolerated
and loving second nature.