A Thanksgiving Prayer

We are grateful to be
In a universe in which stars
Are born and over time will die
Giving forth the elements of everything.

We are grateful to be
On a planet orbiting a star
Just close enough that water
Can course over land in oceans, rivers, and streams.

We are grateful to be
In a climate where rainfall
And sunlight both are delivered
In just the right measures for plants to grow.

We are grateful to be
The descendants of life
That began very simply but
Over eons of time developed to great complexity.

We are grateful to be
Members of a species that
Against all odds has developed
The means to understand who and what we are.

We are grateful to be
Members of a society that
Grants us the freedom in which we
May dream of the things that we might become.

We are grateful to be
Among others whom we love
And who love us and support us
Helping us to find meaning and purpose in life.

We are grateful to be
Able to share in a harvest feast
But, first among all of our blessings
We are grateful to be.