What's the Saddest 'Thank You?'

I know with the difficulties of this year it’s hard to muster gratitude and thankfulness, so I hope this poem helps add perspective to those things.

I wrote it at the lowest point of my life: Thanksgiving Day 2013, inside Leavenworth Federal Prison Camp.

What‘s the saddest ‘Thank You?‘

What is the saddest “Thank You?”

Why does it matter?

In our fast, slick world, can’t we simply “spin” something and attempt to flatter?

What is the saddest “Thank You?”

Is it the one inside our head?

The appreciation thought, but left unsaid?

If it’s the thought that counts shouldn’t I get credit, even if I hadn’t said it?

What is the saddest “Thank You?”

Of course these are most sad that are given insincerely, inappreciatively, inappropriately, or inadequately.

So what is the saddest “Thank You?”

My friend all of the preceding are quite true, but the answer to this question lies deep inside of you.

An attitude of gratitude – that is what all life should hold,

From the very young to the most old.

A well-timed sincere “thank you,” like forgiveness, has no value until given away.

It is not enough to think it, it’s something you must DO and SAY.

Cherish the “thank you’s” given, and the ones received.

They are from faithful friends and loyal loved ones: that you can surely believe.

It’s not just the big things we should appreciate, small ones count just as much too.

Anything is fair game for a “thank you” that was done to benefit you.

I promise to never make another “thank you” sad.

This is how I intend to keep all my “thank you’s” happy and glad:

My attitude and actions will always show gratitude –

Regardless if those around are nice or acting a fool.

I will always give thanks to God

For all things,

In all things,

And especially for you.