“‘Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free. ‘Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be; and when we find ourselves in the place just right, ’twill be in the valley of love and delight. (Chorus:) When true simplicity is gain’d, to bow and to bend we shan’t be asham’d, to turn, turn will be our delight; till by turning, turning we come ’round right.”

You’re humming it now, aren’t you? Penned by Elder Joseph Brackett (1848) while he lived in the Shaker community of Alfred, Maine, these original lyrics were a one-verse song with chorus. Multiple versions, from Sydney Carter’s hymn entitled “Lord of the Dance” in 1963 (also used in Michael Flatley’s dance musical of the same name) to Aaron Copeland’s adaption of the melody in the music for the ballet Appalachian Spring, have popularized the tune and lyrics through generations. Many songwriters, recording artists, instrumentalists, and poets share versions and interpretations. Personally, this verse powerfully speaks to the gift of my gratefulness, helping to grow the soul, become less trivial, be more kind, loving fearless, gracious, and hopeful. Living with an open heart creates a spirit of JOYfilled expectation in life because gratefulness itself is a stunningly simple gift!

Yes; it’s simple; just not easy! It’s NEVER easy. What I learned from brain research is how gratefulness creates positive feelings and emotions. Gratefulness gives birth to the positive around and within us. Negativity simply cannot occur in the brain at the same time as gratefulness; and yes, life finds a way to test this theory daily. During this time of year when we reflect, ponder, and prepare, may we pause to seek real, meaningful inspiration in the practice of living from simple, if not easy, gratefulness. Be well and find ways to care for yourself as you care for others, friends.