A Thanksgiving Prayer

The table's set with plates for all

A turkey roast a feast so tall

Family and friends with stories and smiles

Full plates and laughter linger awhile

But one chair's empty standing still

A quiet void we cannot fill

For somewhere far

The soldier stands

Across the seas

Through the night

They hold the line

They keep the light

Raise a glass to the ones not here

To those who serve year after year

The ones who guard while we break bread

The heroes walking where angels tread

Across the seas beneath the skies

They carry hope with tired eyes

An oath, a uniform, a flag held high

Their sacrifice we can't deny

Freedom isn’t free

They say

It’s bought by those who pave the way

With courage

Strength

A steadfast will

They serve so we can sit here still

Be thankful

Be kind

Be true

For all of those who gather with you

And remember those who stand alone

Protecting hearts

Protecting homes

So when you bow your head to pray

Remember them this holiday

Freedom's price is paid in tears

In quiet nights in endless years

Their courage echoes through the hall

A silent thanks to one and all