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.

Look and see those around you who have experienced so much that is life.

These hands have worked, are working, and will work to make the world a better place.

Go in peace; go in love; work for justice.

Go forth and bless the world.