"So Thankful"

My health is so much better,

Than many men my age,

And, yes, I’ve had two heart attacks,

But healthy at this stage.

And for my health I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I have a little piece of land,

Deep in the heart of Texas,

With horses and a few longhorns,

The Lord has really blessed us.

And for this place I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I have some friends I count on,

A brother, cowboys, too,

To me they have been loyal,

With all that I’ve been through.

And for these friends I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I have have my kids and grandkids,

I have all hers, too,

We have a blended family,

I love them through and through.

And for these kids I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I have a God-sent partner,

To walk with me through life,

She is such a dream come true,

So glad she is my wife.

And for her I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I have a place to do my work,

I have a ministry,

I preach at a cowboy church,

As long as they’ll have me.

And for church I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

I live in America,

With freedoms strong and sweet,

Bought by the blood of patriots,

Whom tyrants can’t defeat.

And for freedom I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

But best of all, salvation!

Given by God’s grace,

And because of Jesus,

One day I’ll see His face.

And for Him I’m thankful,

I am really thankful.

“Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me…” (Psalm 103:2, NLT)

Reading this poem you might think I have had an easy life. Compared to some, maybe. But I have had my share of disappointment, hurt, loss, and tragedy. In it all and through it all, however, I have experienced incredible blessings. One of the oldest hymns I remember from childhood is called “Count Your Blessings.” If you don’t know it, I suggest you look it up online and read the words. They are powerful, and echo the words of the psalmist. Not to trivialize anything bad that you’ve been through, but I find that if I focus on thanking God for my blessings rather than dwelling on the negative aspects of life, I do a lot better. I don’t always feel it, but if I choose it, my emotions catch up. Never forget the good things God has done.

Lord, help us live thankfully, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Teal Blake, used by permission. Thanks, Teal, and God bless you.