After the Turkey is Gone

After the turkey is gone, what then?
Will we keep in mind the blessings
for which we claimed to be thankful?
Or will we allow the chaos of everyday life,
real and imagined problems,
to intrude into the contentment
we felt on Thanksgiving Day.

The cranberries, the stuffing and pie a dim memory,
will we focus on trivial irritations,
or will we hold on to what’s really important,
the deep, satisfying, good things we have
instead of what we imagine we want
but haven’t got.

After the turkey is gone,
cling to the blessings;
remember what makes life worth living;
continue thanks giving.

By Joanna Fuchs