For we rob our own lives
much more than we know
When we fail to respond
or in any way show
Our thanks for the blessings
that daily are ours...

The warmth of the sun,
the fragrance of flowers,
The beauty of twilight,
the freshness of dawn,
The coolness of dew
on a green velvet lawn,
The kind little deeds
so thoughtfully done,
The favours of friends
and the love that someone
Unselfishly gives us
in a myriad of ways,
Expecting no payment
and no words of praise

Oh, great is our loss
when we no longer find
A thankful response
to things of this kind,

For the JOY of ENJOYING
and the FULLNESS of LIVING
Are found in the heart
that is filled with THANKSGIVING.


Helen Steiner Rice