When you walk through a forest
And see a fire pit burning to its embers
Do you contemplate watching the flame die
Or proceed on your journey?
Focusing too long on the flicker in the flame’s death
Stops us from seeing the warmth that will again flourish.
The memories that we hold and the joyous moments to be had
Become too far from our memory as we dwell.
We have the choice to be a light to others
And cherish the moments we have.
We can make the memories of others bountiful
When we put others’ needs before our own.
Gratitude is the light that we don’t see, but feel,
The words that we hold so dear,
Becoming feelings to others,
So we choose.
An unappreciative soul has none.
The missing piece of flesh,
Unfortunate misuse of words,
Broken feelings by distancing others.
We must challenge our morals
By remaining mindful.
Reverse.
Repent.
Looking too long at a burnt-out fire,
Focusing on what we don’t have,
Will only bring negativity
Accompanied with sorrow.
Gratitude is showing love to others,
Directing our thoughts on our blessings,
Appreciating those around us,
Never forgetting those who are gone.
Grateful for life,
Grateful for love,
Grateful for those we have been blessed of.
As we gather around for a feast with our loved ones, remember those who have less than us. Those without money for food on this Thanksgiving holiday, and especially those without family, a bed to rest in, or heat to keep them warm.
Remember, if you have these you are truly blessed.