Dear Holy Flame,
If ‘Hope is the thing with feathers’, (thank you, Emily Dickinson) 
Then Joy is the thing that flickers!

Thank you for the caregivers in our lives.
For those who make us feel noticed, seen, and loved.
For the spouse who made our breakfast.
For the friend who follows up with a text.
For the neighbor who brings in a package.
For the barista who remembers our name.
For the stranger who extends an act of care.

Father in Heaven,
Thank You for places near and far
For us to explore and experience;
For creating a world overflowing with
History and humanity, cuisine and color
Unique to the landscapes and locations
We visit on vacation.

Thank You for the rhythm
Of rest, recreation, and re-entry.

I am carried gracefully
By these two wheels beneath me,
Through the day.

In the morning
I’m surrounded by people
Rushing in cars to their places.
I pray mercy will mark their day.

Jesus,
You travelled many roads
And told stories of road travelers.
As we travel in the air,
May we be a good neighbor.

May we wake with grateful hearts
May we walk with grateful bodies
May we talk with grateful minds
And may we live with a grateful spirit