I Give Thanks

I give thanks for the hard times, for they made me strong.
I give thanks for the lean times, for they made a giver.
I give thanks for the loneliness, for it made me a friend.
I give thanks for the hunger, for it taught me to share.
I give thanks for the tears, for they taught me to smile.
I give thanks for my daughter, for she keeps me straight.
I give thanks for rain, for it makes my flowers grow.
I give thanks for the winds, for ice, and the snow, alas,
I recognize the scent of springtime when it tickles my nose.
I give thanks for the stress that led to a stroke in 2001, for when it was all said and done, I woke up with skills I didn't know I had.
I woke up a writer, lo and behold! I still don't know where it all
comes from, but far be it for me to inquire. I simply say thank
you, for the gift of a lifetime and hope I can give it back through
the words I write.

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I give thanks to each and every one of you for your friendship, and all the inspiration you have given me. May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving day.

Carmen Ruggero