Book of Poetry

A Prayer of Thanksgiving

Description: A reason to always give thanks, regardless of the circumstances.

Dear God... oh, where should I begin?
I've had many losses and many wins.
Still jobless, much to my chagrin...
My room at home is better than an inn's.

In this poor economic time
we still survive without committing crimes,
though we watch each penny and dime.
The price of living continues to climb.

That is not the reason I pray,
But, to say "thank you" each and every day
For your love, though I'm prone to stray,
And for a sacrifice I can't repay.

I'm not perfect, I miss some signs,
When fear comes (that bump might not be benign...)
Still, I remember, I stop my whines
For my trials serve only to refine.

The knowledge that one day I'll rise,
Called up to join in and praise you on high,
Causes smiles to replace sighs.
Rejoined with you... there is no better prize.

My God, my savior, I thank you,
I thank you for making me new
I thank you for your love and mercy, too.
I thank you for just being you!

Why did they have to steal my smile?

Description: A reflection on the lack of connection between people in society.

Why did they have to steal my smile?
Emptiness
Loneliness
It has been gone for quite a while.

I stopped when it was never returned.
Embarrassed
Disregarded
Never got the smile for which I yearned.

I guess they were in too much pain.
Isolation
Depression
So I was treated to disdain.

Now, I realize it was my fault.
Self-conscious
Uncomfortable
Open wounds, rejection stung like salt.

It's too late, now I just look away.
Avoidance
Anonymity
It is not worth the price I pay.

I am fading into the crowd.
Resignation
Obedience
Social conventions have me cowed.

This defeat I cannot accept.
Determination
Hope
Time to renew the faith I kept

Only confidence, do I lack,
Happiness
Joy
It is time to take my smile back!