There is a joy that yet descends this day

There is a joy that yet descends this day
Despite the ups and downs that often may
For this day of thankfulness
May we ere yet be reminded of this

For what trials or troubles may come this day
May we yet cheer them away with a true display
For joy crumbles away the proud of heart
And reminds them of a simpler stronger art

There is a strength beneath the marrow
That flutters as the youthful sparrow
Yet poignant as the piercing arrow
It penetrates the hardest of hearts

For though we each in part play a convincing role
We ne'er have strength of which to control
For all in vain are we
Wasting away in our own vanity

Humility reminds of what we have forgot
That we are far more fragile than we dare express
Yet for all our false hopes of happiness
Canst come they close to this

A thankful heart knows its part
For all it knows tis given it
In grace and bounty rare
None other of which it can compare

Yea thankful are the hearts that care
That see beyond their own despair
For all one is and ere shall be
Tis wound up in the grand mystery

For life itself a gift
And how shall we invest in it
How shall we remember it
While still this life remains

May we walk its course in thankfulness
With all our strength and exuberance
May we yet shine through the dismal grime
The light of hope while still there's time

-Joshua Lee Foist