Wow… did you watch any of the Olympics? I couldn't see it all. Who could? I did catch so many astounding moments that put me in tears… either the winning by a hair, or the stumbling on the track, my heart was so pulled by these athletes who have dedicated much of their lives to excellence. Everywhere, especially the women this year, all over the fields, the pools, the playing courts, were astounding all of us with their unprecedented performances.

One quote that still sticks with me was from Gabrielle Douglas - the 16 year old and first African American to win the Individual All Around Gold and also contributed to the Team Gold. When asked how she handles all the pressure to deliver an excellent performance, she said, "All I have to do is trust myself".

Have you ever wondered why so many religious and cultural practices place such importance on expressing gratitude? Or why, even now in contemporary spirituality, practices of keeping a gratitude journal and blessing everything around you are taught as pathways to creating abundance and prosperity?

And what a summer we've been having... Are you enjoying yours?

Here in Tennessee where I live now, we've been enjoying both hot sunny days and also the tempestuous storms with thunder and lightening that sprinkle our weeks with the winds of change.