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)