Gratitude

We do not thank the moon
For glowing in the sky at night
And we do not thank the sun
For rising and bringing us light

And too many times, we do not thank
The people who changed our lives
Because we are too busy enjoying
The spoils of learning to thrive

So I’ll stop and say a word or two
For those who inspired me
To make a change and walk a path
That would one day set me free

I want to say this now because
I’m sure that you don’t know
I’ll carry with me all your lessons
Everywhere I go

And despite the sadness
Of a marriage ending
You will always be family to me
My love is never bending

It is hearty like a solid oak tree
Whose branches grow thick and strong
And will not waver despite the changes
As life moves us all along.

CC Perry 2021