Thoughtful Thankfulness

On the fourth Thursday of November,

If tradition wins the day,

Many loved ones get together

To express gratitude in a special way.

With any luck, we are loved, not lonely;

We have some who are dear and near.

Before the feast lays upon the table

Let us try to see beyond the mirror.

Of course, we are grateful for family and friends

And all the goodness in our life,

Be we should also seriously consider

That these benefits came from strife.

America has been called the land of opportunity

For millions, this description has rung true

But, not so for countless of our compatriots

So, we as a society, have a great deal to do.

We should be thankful for judicial independence

And the right to organize, publish and protest

For these features of our heritage

Allow us to continue with America’s quest.

While words of gratitude are welcome

Works make that thankfulness real

For to our better and bravest Angels

Deeds make the highest and best appeal.

Although our times are severely troubled

This November we made strides toward a new start

Let us continue on this path confidently

For honor blooms in the cockles of every grateful heart.

We hold these truths to be self-evident:

That all are born free and equal

Now, by our lives, fortunes, and personal honor,

11-9-2016’s catastrophe shall not have a sequel!

Larry Conley

22 November 2018

Photo Credit: https://www.slideshare.net/monsterww/10-inspirational-veterans-quotes/11-As_we_express_our_gratitude