Simple Gifts

"Simple Gifts" is an inspirational hymn composed by Elder Joseph Brackett in 1848 for his religious community of Shakers in Maine.  Shaker communities had originated in England, but by 1774 these communities began migrating to the United States in search of greater religious, gender, and racial equality.  

Self-sufficient, spiritual Shaker communities were established in Albany and Watervliet, NY, where its members dedicated themselves to honing the skills and tasks of daily lives, care, and interdependence. Every task, no matter how big or small was seen as a gift, rather than a burden—in essence, tasks were simple gifts or blessings.   

In today’s busy world, may we take time to recognize simple gifts.