The national anthem is often played at sporting events or other large gatherings where it's easy for the mind to wander. But when was the last time you actually paused to listen to the beautiful rendition which tells of this country's greatness and honors those who have died to help save it?

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne appeared to do just that as the anthem was played before his team squared off against the New York Giants Monday night. Grammy Award-winning artist and trumpeter Chris Botti performed a moving rendition of the anthem -- without singing a single word.

Thousands inside MetLife Stadium were left without words, too, during the instrumental. Wayne was among those speechless, although visibly tearful.

Image source: Twitter/@ESPNMondayNight

Watch the performance as Wayne and thousands more stand in awe of the great U.S. of A:

(H/T: Uproxx)

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