'You raise me up'

One of the most inspiring songs of the past quarter-century is You Raise Me Up, written by Norwegian composer Rolf Løvland of the internationally acclaimed duo Secret Garden. 

Its message is simple yet profound: we all achieve more when someone believes in us, encourages us, and helps us stand taller than we ever thought possible.  

For seniors, that message resonates deeply. Many of us have spent much of our lives raising others up, be it our children, grandchildren, friends, neighbours, work colleagues or other community members. Often, we do so without expecting recognition. Yet the impact of that encouragement can echo across generations. 

A wonderful example comes from Norway, the homeland of Secret Garden. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Norway made sporting history when three players – Erling Haaland, Alexander Sørloth, and Kristian Thorstvedt – represented their country in the same tournament in which their fathers had represented Norway 32 years earlier, at the 1994 World Cup in the United States. 

CNN reported that the fathers, Alf-Inge Haaland, Gøran Sørloth and Erik Thorstvedt, had all played together for Norway in 1994, and were later able to watch their sons continue the journey they had begun decades before.  

What makes this story so touching is that it is not really about football. It is about legacy. 

Former goalkeeper Erik Thorstvedt told CNN that parents should avoid putting too much pressure on their children and instead focus on helping them enjoy the game and the opportunities it provides. That philosophy appears to have paid dividends. These fathers did not simply pass on sporting ability; they passed on values, confidence and a love of the sport. 

In other words, they raised their children up. 

Most of us will never play in a World Cup final, but we all have opportunities to lift others higher. A grandparent reading to a child, a volunteer mentoring a young person, a neighbour helping someone through a difficult time, or a retiree sharing decades of hard-earned wisdom – these are all acts of raising people up. 

Sometimes we underestimate the effect of our encouragement. A kind word at the right moment can change someone's direction. A vote of confidence can help a person take a chance on a new opportunity. A listening ear can make someone feel valued when life seems overwhelming. Years later, those small acts may be remembered as turning points. 

It is fitting, therefore, that Secret Garden will return to Australia in November 2026 for their first national tour in more than two decades, bringing You Raise Me Up and many of their other beloved works to audiences across the country. Their Australian tour will include performances in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane. 

Their visit also coincides with a National Seniors Gratitude Week, to be celebrated from 8–15 November 2026. Gratitude and encouragement are closely connected. When we take time to thank people who have shaped our lives, we recognise those who have raised us up. Equally, when we express appreciation, we often inspire others to continue supporting those around them. 

Perhaps that is the challenge for all of us during Gratitude Week. Think about the people who helped you become who you are today. A parent, teacher, coach, mentor, friend or partner may have provided a crucial boost when you needed it most. Then consider who you might raise up today. 

The Norwegian footballers who followed in their fathers' footsteps remind us that a positive legacy can last for generations. The message of You Raise Me Up reminds us that no one succeeds alone. 

And Gratitude Week reminds us to say “thank you” to those who helped make the journey possible. 

Because when we raise others up, we leave something far more valuable than success: we leave a legacy of encouragement, hope and gratitude.