DEAR READERS: In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I would like to thank all of you — my readers. I particularly want to single out those of you who have reached out by offering your questions and opinions. To celebrate this special day, I’d like to share one of my favorite poems, because it helps remind us that noticing the simple pleasures of life brings us the most joy.

“We Thank Thee,” by Ralph Waldo Emerson

For flowers that bloom about our feet,

Father, we thank Thee.

For tender grass so fresh, so sweet,

Father, we thank Thee.

For the song of bird and hum of bee,

For all things fair we hear or see,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For blue of stream and blue of sky,

Father, we thank Thee.

For pleasant shade of branches high,

Father, we thank Thee.

For fragrant air and cooling breeze,

For beauty of the blooming trees,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

For this new morning with its light,

Father, we thank Thee.

For rest and shelter of the night,

Father, we thank Thee.

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee.

DEAR ANNIE: Your response to “Not-a-Fan Auntie,” who does not want her niece and her family to attend her Halloween gatherings, did not seem thought through. She asked for a civil way to tell them they’re unwelcome, and you told her to tell them, “This is important quality time with the grandkids, and we’re going to keep it to just us and the kids next year.”

When it comes to relatives, there is no civil way to tell them they’re unwelcome. It always causes hurt feelings, and if she were to take your advice, “Not-a-Fan Auntie” would most likely feel guiltier than anticipated. Letting kindness be her guide, it might be better for her to consider whether these people are lonely, they need family contact or they need a sense of belonging. The niece may be “outspoken and obnoxious,” but she has feelings and undoubtedly would be hurt for a long time to come if “Not-a-Fan Auntie” were to follow your advice. — APPLY THE GOLDEN RULE IN TEMPLE, TEXAS

DEAR APPLY THE GOLDEN RULE: I’m printing your letter because you make good points. I agree that one will never regret being too kind.