I AM SO GRATEFUL for the time to smell the roses. Lying in a hammock between two shade trees Or wandering through a multicolodred rose garden, Sitting quietly and communing with nature Beholding something beautiful in each person I meet.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for a walk with no destination. A choice pair of tennis shoes cushions my feet, Pretty plantings in the neighborhood catch my eye, A leisurely chat provides a welcome, short break, And a nonchalant jogger says, "Have a nice day."

I AM SO GRATEFUL for the sounds of summer. A bicyle beeps a warning from behind, A hard hit baseball implants a resounding whack, Lawn mowers drone while cutting the grass, And booming fireworks light up the night sky.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for the lazy, hazy days of summer. The click of croquet balls rebound across manicured turf, The cool tingle of a root beer float satisfies a deep thirst, Straw bonnets tug against their ribbons on a breezy day, And barbershop quartets harmonize in the good old summertime.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for a stroll through the park. Skateboards hum as they roll down the sidewalk, Live music fills the air at an outdoor concert, Shrieks erupt when a Little Leaguer hits his first home run, And hands clap in unison to the beat of the band.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for relaxing under an oak tree. A bird's sweet song murmurs in my ears, Children's laughter drifts through the air, Before dozing off for an afternoon siesta I think to myself, "It's a wonderful world."

Excerpted from "Gratitude Works: Open Your Heart to Love" by Katherine Scherer and Eileen Bodoh.