A Thanksgiving Prayer

The table's set with plates for all
A turkey roast a feast so tall
Family and friends with stories and smiles
Full plates and laughter linger awhile
But one chair's empty standing still
A quiet void we cannot fill
For somewhere far
The soldier stands
Across the seas
Through the night
They hold the line
They keep the light
Raise a glass to the ones not here
To those who serve year after year
The ones who guard while we break bread
The heroes walking where angels tread
Across the seas beneath the skies
They carry hope with tired eyes
An oath, a uniform, a flag held high
Their sacrifice we can't deny
Freedom isn’t free
They say
It’s bought by those who pave the way
With courage
Strength
A steadfast will
They serve so we can sit here still
Be thankful
Be kind
Be true
For all of those who gather with you
And remember those who stand alone
Protecting hearts
Protecting homes
So when you bow your head to pray
Remember them this holiday
Freedom's price is paid in tears
In quiet nights in endless years
Their courage echoes through the hall
A silent thanks to one and all

Male vocalist, Country, heartfelt, mournful