Shadow

It is easy to be thankful

When the family is near and safe

When all are warm and fed

When temperatures outside whip

to a frigid -30 degrees

While inside it's all fuzzy socks

and bulky sweaters

With a hot apple crisp on the way

My gratitude has a shadow

A question follows, always, on its' heel

What can I do to give, to help, to serve

The ones who have not been given so much?

I am searching for the light that dispels that shadow

Forever