Counting Blessings

as i walk in winter’s garden 

past a birch tree and green ivy 

down to where old seating’s lonely 

in a corner in the dark 

there i turn to face the red brick 

of my home and on the decking 

fairy lights glow so inviting 

lifts the spirits soothes the heart 

hanging from the beams are lanterns 

table covered potted planting 

seasonal in red/gold colours 

festive dressing our delight 

where our young ones like to mingle 

where their laughter echoes loudly 

cold air cheered while breath condenses

wrapped in layers stars shine bright 

count my blessings i am thankful

for the gifts of all i’m given 

in a world that’s rocked by conflict 

marred by death, destroyed the light 

where destruction and division 

blitzes souls and hopes for future 

all while logs inside our burner 

blaze and spread their warmth by night