Poetry

Thanksgiving

I have so many blessings in which to be thankful

Over the years they accumulated in photo albums, memories;

In places visited and people I met; foreign and domestic.

I've made friends; some fun, some dear, others just pals

I have a house that is a home; it keeps me warm when outside is cold.

A family that loves me even when I am ornery and not so good.

Every day is full, I am anxious to rise and do something new

I have achieved success and disappointment at work but always grew

Raised in humble beginnings with good role models for parents

They gave me the basics I needed and taught me to laugh and love

They taught me that I am no better than anyone but I am their equal

They taught me to read and seek and learn and be in awe at the world

I have never stopped except to pause and wonder;

how much I have seen, done, experienced; how much I have to go.

I don't count my riches by the things I bought but the people that I met;

conversations with friends, acquaintances, and Lord knows barkeeps

I count my riches by my children and grandchildren

that still choose to be with us to hang out to shoot the breeze

They never tire of ribbing and playing jokes on the old man,

calling me their favorite nickname as in a tease

This thanksgiving, give those that are close the most precious gift;

your time; the one thing you can't save and store;

each hour, minute, second is more valuable every passing year.

We thankfully remember those we lost this year that were dear.

Thankful for the memories we have knowing them and everyone,

especially to my wife who has been by my side and made life fun.

Since I barely shaved till now the stubble is gray.

In between she let me be me, and I her, and here we are today.