Gratitude
In the key of “Blessings” by Jay Parini
I am thankful for the birds—
sparrows chattering like old friends,
the red-bellied woodpecker
scolding an empty feeder.
Their hunger gives my hands
something to do.
For hands that shaped me,
even those that bruised.
Pain taught me tenderness,
the fire I walked through
taught me not to burn those
I hold close.
For simple things—
mornings on the deck,
coffee still steaming in my hands
before the world remembers my name.
For evenings when the sky
softens its edges,
and grace finds me anyway.
For the heart finding its rhythm
after storms, after absence.
For sorrow carving space for kindness.
For the word
forgiveness,
echoing through the years.
First published in Ragaire Literary Magazine, Issue 5
As always, a huge THANK YOU for taking the time to read my poem. Without you, my voice would be a whisper just floating in the air.
Sitting here with my coffee, reading your poem of benefaction, "before the world remembers my name" (what a gorgeous line!)
These words so struck me: For hands that shaped me,
even those that bruised.
Pain taught me tenderness,
the fire I walked through
taught me not to burn those
I hold close.