I have written several blogs about the creatures that I meet when I travel to different parts of the country. In Vermont, I have ducks, fish, otters, fox, deer, racoons, skunks, ants and spiders to mention a few. Oh, and once we had a visit from a mink, true story! In Florida, the multitude of birds which gather at the bird bath in my backyard keep me enthralled with their antics and beauty. There are also visits from rabbits, bats, frogs, coyotes and bob cats. Wow! A real menagerie.

This month, we are spending some time at the ocean. I had hoped to see some dolphins from the window of our dwelling.  That has not happened yet, but there is still time. I have seen lots of pelicans-those large prehistoric-looking birds-flying low over the water and floating lazily when they land with a big splash. There are flocks of little, tiny sand pipers and the occasional lone bird, hunting all by itself in the shallows of the shore. They are all fascinating to observe. I marvel at the beauty, complexity and wonder of each of these creatures.

 I wanted to add something about the children’s hymn that is the source of the title that I have used several times. So, I went to my little book of songs to find out about the hymn “All Things Bright and Beautiful.” It is an interesting story and one that fills my heart with joy.

This hymn was written by Mrs. Cecil Frances Alexander, an Anglo-Irish poet and songwriter. She was inspired to write this hymn and several other well-known pieces to explain The Apostle’s Creed to children. In fact, this work, “Once in David’s Royal City”, “There Is a Green Hill Far Away” and “He Is Coming! He Is Coming” were all published in her book, Hymns for Little Children in 1848. They all explain different aspects of the Creed. “This book of hymns became one of the most successful hymn publishing projects in history, going through over one hundred editions.”  (Then Sings My Soul Book 2, Robert J. Morgan, pg. 75)

I have chosen a musical video which provides the lyrics, so that you can see and hear the beautiful images that Mrs. Alexander uses. There are even a few dolphins in the film. Enjoy the hymn and each special creature that you meet today.

Remember that God loves you unconditionally! Halleluiah!

Terri