Become aware of the hands that you are holding.

Their warmth, texture, and weight.

As an infant these same hands reached out for the nourishment of milk.

As a child these hands shakily wrote a name on paper for the first time.

These hands have wiped away tears, clenched in anger, waved hello and good-bye countless times and embraced loved ones.

And now these hands are the tangible link that connects us to one another.

I invite you to look around and see those around you who have experienced so much that is life.

May the circle be open but never broken.

Go in peace.
Go in love.
Work for justice.
Go forth and bless the world.