For the Beauty of the Earth

A path for which I am deeply grateful.

I was out and about shopping a few years ago. As I exited a store with my arms full of bags, an older gentleman held the door for me. "Thank you!" I responded, grateful for the help. He tipped his head and held a second set of doors open as we exited. "Thank you again!" I responded once more in the same manner. His face brightened. "Wow!" he said with a smile. "I wish we had more doors!" 
It was a great reminder to me that gratitude doesn't have a shelf life. Appreciating the things and people in your life on a daily basis isn't redundant-it's actually a tool for success. In her book, "The Elite: Think Like An Athlete, Succeed Like a Champion", Dr. Jo Lukin describes how athletes at the top of their game have learned the power of gratitude. By remaining grateful and savoring each moment, happiness becomes a tool for achievement and by appreciating your opportunities, she suggests, we can experience gratitude every day. 

Thanksgiving music is often passed over by the holiday train, but what it lacks in quantity and sparkle, it makes up for in depth and meaning. Such music never ceases to center my priorities and re-align my thoughts to reflect gratitude. "For the Beauty of the Earth" was written by a 29-year old English poet, Folliott Pierpoint as he observed the majesty of the countryside surrounding him.

For the beauty of the earth
For the glory of the skies
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies. 
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.

What people, events or opportunities compose your hymn of grateful praise this year?

Add these to your Thanksgiving dinner playlist-you'll thank me later. :)

• John Rutter's incredible choral renditions of "All Things Bright and Beautiful" and "Look at the World".
• Paul Cardell's stunning instrumental arrangement of "Come, Thou Fount" which I've already requested to have played at my funeral some day. :) 
• Stephen Paulus' "Pilgrim's Hymn" begs for a few moments of restful thought in the middle of the journey.

And for fun!

• Prepare to shake your hips during the main course with Nat Kendrick and the Swans' "Do the Mashed Potato".
• Step up the dance moves with Natalie Cole's "Be Thankful".