“In the presence of such gifts,
gratitude is the intuitive first response.”
Robin Wall Kimmerer
This is my family’s first Thanksgiving without our dad, who died in April. I’m sharing our prayer before dinner here.
Dad was nothing if not ever-thankful for the blessings of his life. First and foremost, for his faith in a God of love, who guided Dad throughout his life– not only when it was easy, but when a changing world challenged him. Dad always chose love.
And he loved no one more than Mom. In one magic night, he fell under the spell of this Irish girl, who for 70 years whispered in his ear, ensuring they would always be on the same page.
Gathered here today are the rest of his blessings: each of you, all of us. He loved nothing more than family gathered– well, family, food, and 49ers were his favorite combo. That was his heaven-on-earth.
Today, let’s give thanks for his long life and the love he showered on us. And let us find him ever with us in spirit.
Amen.
I am grateful for this Poetry Friday community and especially, this week, Buffy Silverman who hosts our roundup. May you and your families find joy, peace, and gratitude for one another and for the blessings in your life.
Patricia Franz writes picture books and poetry. She believes children, dogs, and sourdough have a lot to teach us about life, joy, and wonder. She has raised two boys, four dogs, and holds a master’s degree in Theology with a focus on children’s spirituality. Patricia, her husband, her Bernese Mountain dog, Bonny, and her sourdough starter split their time between the Arizona desert and the Sierra Nevada mountains. 
Beautiful ❤️
This made me cry. Well done!
Love your amazing tribute to your dad and amazing photo of your parents! I am trying to embrace gratitude with more presence this season so thank you for this lovely post!
Thank you, Mona. And again, welcome to Poetry Friday!
Loss leaves us with a gaping hole in our lives, Patricia, and we are blessed when we can fill it with the blessings we received from the beloved person who said goodbye. You’ve shown us that, as you wrote about your father. I’m honored that you shared!
Such a beautiful way to think about loss and blessing, Linda. Thank you.
What a beautiful tribute to your dad, Patricia–thanks for sharing it.
Thank you, Buffy. And thanks for hosting us this week!
Amen
I’m sorry for your 1st Thanksgiving without your dear Dad & appreciate reading loving words from a daughter he surely adored always, wrote about him. Hugs from Florida for solace & serenity during the rest of the holiday season, dear Patricia.
Hugs back, Jan. Thank you.
Beautiful, Patricia. Those first year moments are always so hard. Blessings.
Beautiful, Patricia. I am sorry for your loss. What a nice way to remember your father.
Aw, Patricia, this is just beautiful. What a lovely way to include your dad in your Thanksgiving. The love and gratitude doesn’t die.
Amen.
Oh, Patricia, what a beautiful tribute, prayer, and gathering of memories. Again, condolences on your loss, and may your dear dad rest in peace.
Oh, thank you for sharing a little of your dad with us. This is lovely.