Treasures Along the Way

Pondering gratitude this clear morning
It is the most elevating feeling a person can have
Gratitude lifts us out of our self-centered cocoon,
Brings in the light of every other noble trait

Gratitude leads to kindness and compassion
It leads to appreciation of all who have given so much
Whether to our own lives or to the lives of many
Gratitude refines our rough and selfish edges

Behind every one of us, somewhere along our path
Are others who gave their time and love
to help each of us, to lift and guide us

Ideally, those who have given the most are our parents
Do we every fully realize how much they sacrificed?
Do we appreciate their sweat, exhaustion and tears over us?

Until we see how much they gave, we continue blindly,
Focusing on me, me, me-which leads to an emptiness
and unfulfilled life without purpose, and can
even lead to cruelty and a mean spirit

True awakening comes from a grateful heart
Which leads to sharing our love and our lessons,
to bless and help others along their journey,
especially helping those to whom we owe so much

Showing our gratitude to those who have loved us
Is vital, is critical for our growth and polishing
Changing from dull and flat to shiny, glowing and pure
And filling their hearts with a deep satisfaction

A satisfaction they so richly deserve
for all their battles served in our behalf
If they die before seeing and knowing our thankful hearts
We alone are left to regret and mourn our inaction and silence

Time is short, fleeting and brief!
We would be wise to show our grateful heart today
Before they’re gone
Before the silent grave



By Becky Hull
July 30, 2025