Gifts on My Altar – Howard Thurman

As I reflect on Christmas present and Christmases past my heart is full. Full of memories, people, times, and places. This year has been a struggle for me and for Denise. I came across this poem/prayer of Howard Thurman and it spoke to my heart. So in turn, I share them with you, dear reader.

I place these gifts on my altar this Christmas;

Gifts that are mine, as the years are mine:

The quiet hopes that flood the earnest cargo of my dreams:

The best of all good things for those I love,

A fresh new trust for all whose faith is dim.

The love of life, God’s precious gift in reach of all:

Seeing in each day the seeds of the morrow,

Finding in each struggle the strength of renewal,

Seeking in each person the face of my brother.

I place these gifts on my altar this Christmas;

Gifts that are mine, as the years are mine.

For the Inward Journey: The Writings of Howard Thurman (p. 251)