Those Winter Sundays

Robert Hayden's "Those Winter Sundays" really made me think. The poem talks about a father who without thanks works hard every day to keep the house warm, and the family happy. No one ever thanks him. "Speaking indifferently to him, who had driven out the cold and polished my good shoes as well" (Hayden). This tells the audience that he does these things, not for the thanks, but simply for the well being of his family. The author realizes that he has not fully understood the great things that his father had done for his family. I fell I sometimes too act in this way. I simply assume my parents will do the great things they have always done for me. I don't take the time to thank them for their work. From this poem, I've reflected upon my own life. I know understand I can't take those who are dear to me for granted. I must thank them for their work they do to help me and make my life better, and try to repay them in whatever way I can.