When the last light of day has faded
into quiet darkness,
when all of conversation has ended,
when I lie in silence except for the sound
of my own breathing:

I am grateful for days like this
that come in autumn’s soft calling,
for the smiles of friends and strangers,
for the closeness of this woman beside me,
for work that makes me believe
that I am made for both giving and receiving,
for colleagues who care,
for others who share both burden and blessing.

I have found it good to ease into night
keeping count of all good things
without thought of deserve or earned
but knowing that He who makes the sun to shine
on both the just and the unjust
has granted me far more
than I ever imagined or asked for.

With eyes closed and heart opened,
I give thanks
and smile my way into sleep,
welcoming the rest of the blessed.

H. Arnett
11/6/15