GOD'S BEEN GOOD TO ME
I'm mindful of the blessings
That come my way each day.
My heart is overflowing
Each time I kneel to pray.
I'm thankful for the seasons;
Each one's a masterpiece.
I'm allowed to work the land,
But God still holds the lease.
I'm grateful for the friendships
That brighten sorrow's way,
Because my cup of happiness
Sustains me everyday.
I love the children and the flowers
That decorate my life
And the quiet, gentle hours
Free from worry and strife.
I'm grateful for eyes that see
The beauty of it all
Because God's been good to me
And blessed me through it all.
I'm thankful for the little things
That fill my life with love.
The best things in life are free;
They come from God above!
~By Clay Harrison~
"The Greatest Generation" is a term coined by journalist Tom Brokaw to describe the generation[1] who grew up in the United States during the deprivation of the Great Depression and many went on to fight in World War II. (see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greatest_Generation)
I have always admired this generation, and their resilience that was shaped by living through the depression, their love of country and their “can do” grateful attitude. Sadly, our church has lost too many of this generation over the past year: Dr. Myles Morrison, Marty Kleindienst, Bob Lundquist, and most recently Rit Kay. Let us appreciate those we still have with us from the “Greatest Generation” and learn from their wisdom about how to be faithful, strong, and grateful in our living.
Phil Thayer will be 96 years old the first of November. Although he lives at Fellowship Village, Phil remains an important member of our church family. When his daughter comes to visit, he asks her to bring him up to our church office so he can greet us. Despite his severe hearing loss and difficulty with mobility, Phil always laughs and jokes as he always did when he comes to visit. His positive spirit has been an important factor in his creative longevity.
Phil was always active in the leadership of our congregation for many many years! We are so grateful for all he has contributed to shaping our church into the strong vibrant one it is today! Phil’s attitude of gratitude that still keeps him growing into his 97th year of life is reflected in the poetry by Clay Harrison. Let us all learn from both Phil and Clay about having a thankful heart for all our many blessings.
Let us be thankful for the "Greatest Generation" as we enjoy this poem of Thanksgiving: http://www.angelfire.com/d20/cupofjoy/dailythings.html
