LW Poetry

This feature showcases original poems by members of the Creative Writers Club of Leisure World and other GRF members.

For all I’ve been given, I give thanks

I have stood in the middle of the source of the mighty Mississippi when yet a child I have seen Mt. Everest covered with snow I have watched the sun set over the palm trees of California. And I give thanks to all that be I have seen the laborers of Nepal I have ridden on the backs of elephants into the mighty jungle I have traveled the rapids of the rivers of Nepal And I give thanks for all I’ve done and seen I have been to the top of the Great Pyramid of Egypt I have settled on the floor of the Taj Mahal I have stood on the great blue glaciers of Alaska And I give thanks once again to a power higher than I have ever known I have seen more in my lifetime than I ever thought possible I am at peace with who I am I have come from the depths of despair As I lost a son And I give thanks to all those who were my saviors. For the earth, the universe, the galaxy I give thanks. For a life filled with joy and gratitude I give thanks. I have given birth twice and adopted once I have seen my sons grow in body and spirit I have been with my grandchildren more than I could ever have dreamed of And I give thanks for the life I have been given I have been challenged and have suffered I have learned and grown I have experienced life and death of people close to me And I give thanks for those who helped me through I have witnessed a holy cremation on the banks of a holy river I have been to the Masai Mara of Kenya And I once again give thanks for all I have seen I am in awe of our earth and Mother Nature And treasure our soil, water, and light I wonder at the universe, and I am grateful to powers I do not understand As I feel the interconnected web of my faith Thank you for the privilege of life in a world of wonder And help me treasure it and protect it all the rest of my years For without nature, caring people, and the ability to fight for what is right, Life would have no meaning and it does for me.

—Bonnie Coomes, Mutual 10