Amy C Walters

A Thanksgiving Poem by Amy Walters

When I list my blessings, I go to what’s on top,

To family, friends and food and that’s usually where it stops.

One song says every blessing I’ll return in thanks to you.

But if I’m being honest, it’s not completely true.

If hindsight is clear, then looking back I know

That some wonderful gifts come through pain and sorrow.

This year I have had problems both big and small

And it was easy to forget that you were Lord over them all. 

In those times I cried and asked, “Lord, what have you done?”

As I threw up my hands and attempted to run. 

But now I’m on the other side and I can finally see

How healing the pain can potentially be.

And I know in those moments, there was no thanks in my heart

As I licked my wounds and the rebellion would start.

But those blessings disguised as trials were there

To grow me and show me how much you care.

You’re concerned with far more than simple comfort and ease

Your goal is your glory and your name to please.

It’s not that bad things on their own can be good

But that you can redeem them must be understood. 

Not all blessings from pain will be seen here on earth,

It may take eternity to realize their worth. 

I wonder if in heaven I’ll feel some distress

To see the extent of my ungratefulness. 

I can only imagine how bankrupt I’d be

If you only allowed things you thought would please me.

But I desire to praise you even in the pain

And trust that in time, I will see the gain. 

So forgive me, dear Father, for stopping too short

When the value of pain I tend to distort.

My hope is someday when I’m older and wise

I’ll give thanks for it all, even blessings in disguise.