The Crucible Of Life

 

The crucible of life

Will bring many people into our midst

If we think of those who have impacted us

There will be many on the list.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

In every area of our lives

We will find someone has had a part to play

Parents, friends, teachers, neighbors, spouses, co-workers, bosses, children, in-laws, siblings, even siblings' friends, and friends of friends

Will have made a difference along the way.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

Experiences that they shared

Or books that they  lent

Things that they taught us

Or advice well meant.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

Ideas they communicated

Or skills and insights

Connections they made for us

That changed our futures, slowly or overnight.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

Activities we took up

Groups we were invited to belong to

Behind them was a person or persons

Who helped support and develop us, and to whom we owe a thank you.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

It is amazing all the incredible people

With whom we are thrown together

Some who will make a temporary impact

And some who will make an impact that lasts forever.

 

To all of them we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

Angels are watching over us

Is what some of us would say

Indeed it's good to count every person we meet as a divine blessing

For faith in people keeps cynicism at bay.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

Isn't it amazing?

That people can enter your world

And change your whole direction

Even cause a new you to unfurl?

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

We go through life accumulating debts to people

In big and small ways

The crucible of life

Guarantees this will happen through all our days.

 

To all of them, we should say…

Happy Valentine's Day.

 

So let's use this moment

To acknowledge them today

Do join me in saying to everyone in your life...

Happy Valentine's Day

 

Yes the crucible of life

Will bring many people into our midst

We should cherish each one of them

Their presence is a gift.

 

So once again, do join me 

In wishing a heartfelt and sincere wish to everyone...

Happy Valentine's Day.

Happy Valentine's Day, 2021!