The Legacy of Heroes

MP3 - The Legacy of Heroes
PDF - The Legacy of Heroes

As I was perusing some poetry, I happened upon this one. And almost instantaneously, a melody emerged. I got permission to set Susan Noyes Anderson's stirring poem to music. I wanted it to reflect a solemn feel, so one could feel the words as they are sung. I thank Susan for her gift and for the privilege of setting one of her poems to music. This would make a wonderful Fourth of July, Memorial Day, Veteran's Day or the like occasion. I hope you enjoy it.

1. Today we celebrate our troops, whose valor must be praised. 
Our nation is the legacy of heroes born and raised. 

2. From sea to shining sea they choose to honor and protect 
The laws and land that we revere, the freedoms we respect. 

3. The sacrifices of these men and women stir our hearts, 
Invoking all the gratitude their selflessness imparts. 

4. We celebrate each one of them and thank their fam'lies too. 
For rising to our country's call with courage known by few. 

5. May we be true to all who serve, and hold in memory, 
Each father, mother, daughter, son, whose blood has kept us free. 

The Brightness of the Gospel Plan

MP3 - The Brightness of the Gospel Plan
PDF - The Brightness of the Gospel Plan

I welcome another collaborator, Dixie Lea Henrie to the ldshappymusic "family". I had this tune for over two years and turned it over to her for inspiration. What it became is a great missionary hymn that would sound great sung by missionaries. :) I hope you enjoy it and, as always I welcome feedback.

1. The brightness of the gospel plan will ever light the way,
    To seeking hearts, and wand'ring souls who may have gone astray.
    The call is ours in latter days, to leave no soul behind,
    But be a beacon in the dark that searching hearts may find.

2. Be mindful of the low in heart, endeavoring to cope,
    Give comfort, help and charity, encouragement and hope.
    And love thy neighbor as thyself for truly, who is he?
    A precious child of royal birth, a brother unto thee.

3. We'll share the friendship, share the joy, love's ensign taking hold,
    For every nation, kindred tongue, we'll bring into the fold.
    We'll share the plan of happiness, God's children one and all.
    The field is ripe, the harvest nigh, let each one heed the call.

4. May we be servants unto thee, be faithful, honest, true,
    That others who may see our light, accept the gospel too.
   Oh Father may we be thy hands, our meager light be Thine,

   And spread thy word o'er all the earth, thy gospel light to shine.