I’m thankful for family and friends held so dear,
For a long, blessed life and another good year.
For sons who love Jesus and walk in his way—
That alone makes me grateful, a thousand times a day.
For thirty-seven years married—imagine that feat.
For advice when I needed it, steady and sweet.
For tough times that shaped me, though heavy they seemed,
For they built up my strength and the courage I dreamed.
For memories treasured and lessons that cost,
For support when I wondered if all hope was lost.
For raindrops in drought and for clouds painted bright,
For the Lord walking with me from morning to night.
For snow on the mountains and skiing downhill,
For miracles proving that God’s working still.
For pumpkin pie slices—oh, mercy, what bliss.
For cool air that hugs like a comforting kiss.
For cars that will take me from here to out there,
For knowing what’s right and for God’s gentle care.
For his truth in the Bible that steadies my days,
For salvation that fills me with wonder and praise.
For puzzles and tools and the answers I seek,
For birthdays and books that I read every week,
For music and singing, for writing my part,
For speaking truths that flow fresh from the heart.
For mountains that rise with a towering view,
For readers and listeners who cheer what I do.
For teachers and sports and sweet watermelon—
Oh, gratitude’s growing. There’s no way of tellin’.
For hope in the storms and God’s promises strong,
For challenges that keep pushing me forward along.
For sweet potatoes, spinach, and barbecue too—
For meatloaf and beans. Yes, I’m thankful for you.
For fresh air and love and appreciation’s glow,
For stories and mysteries that help my heart grow.
For problems that hide opportunities bright,
For water with lemon and strawberries’ delight.
For fishing and parks and promotions that came,
For blessings too many for one poem to name.
But of all of the things that I’m thankful for most,
It’s God’s gracious choosing that humbles my boast.
For what tops the list, when it’s all said and done,
Is that God lets me help even one hurting one.
To be used by the Lord—oh, that’s gratitude’s peak.
For that, I’ll give thanks every day of the week.
