The last several years, we have been out of the country on Thanksgiving. While enjoying our vacations, I tried to spend time reflecting on the many things I am thankful for in my life. This year, we have returned from vacation earlier and will have “Friendsgiving” here in Chicago – one of the many things we are thankful for.
Instead of writing a long list of things I am thankful for on this day, I share two short poems by Ralph Waldo Emerson that capture the essence of Thanksgiving for me:
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Although these are more religious than I intend to be, they seem fitting to me.
I am thankful that my cup runneth over in so many ways. Though that sometimes makes my life hectic and stressful, I feel very fortunate to have so many good things, people, activities and places in my life.
Wishing you and yours a happy, and healthy, Thanksgiving and holiday season ahead.
What are you thankful for?