Giving Thanks by Touching Lives and Making a Difference

 


What can I say about Thanksgiving that has not already been said? Or how many times can I quote Abraham Lincoln on this subject? Not that I don't enjoy the holiday, my children actually say it is their favorite holiday, but because the holiday can change for us as we get older.

When my wife and I were first married, the holiday was marked by running from one family gathering to another. Then children came along, and we drove less distance but we still had two celebrations in one day. Eventually, we started hosting both sides of the family at our house. That lasted for about 20 years. Now, as children have gotten older, and started traditions of their own, the holiday has changed again.

So I may not be able to say anything new about Thanksgiving, I can say it in a different way. This is my poem in celebration of the holiday.

Giving Thanks by Touching Lives and Making a Difference
By David L. Burton

On Thanksgiving Day, the table set,  
With laughter and joy, no room for regret.  
We gather together, both far and near,  
To share in the blessings we've held so dear.  

The golden turkey, the pies in a row,  
A harvest of bounty from seeds we sow.  
Yet more than the feast or the warm, glowing light,  
It's the ties that bind us, so steadfast and bright.  

Engaged neighbors smile, hearts open wide,  
In the simple act of standing beside.  
In the shared glance, the helping hand,  
Together we rise, together we stand.  

Gratitude whispers in moments so small—  
A call, a hug, a story, a song.  
For love that's abundant, for kindness so free,  
For the bond of community, the gift of "we."  

So here's to the moments, both fleeting and dear,  
To the blessings of now and the memories near.  
On Thanksgiving, we count not just what we take,  
But the lives we touch and the difference we make.

MORE INFORMATION

Are you interested in taking the Engaged Neighbor pledge? The pledge outlines five categories and 20 principles to guide you toward becoming an engaged neighbor. Sign the pledge online at http://engagedneighbor.com. Individuals who take the pledge do get special privilides and get invited to future events online and in person. Contact the blog author, David L. Burton at dburton541@yahoo.com.

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