We pause to recognize and affirm all that unifies us in common humanity. We come from the earth over billions of years; we are connected to the very source of life; we abide in the intimacies with the God of our upbringings and in all other understandings of self, life, otherness and destiny. What an amazing paradox…to be gathered as distinct, separate individuals –and yet united through blood, evolution, consciousness, awareness, reality and choice. One and many; one love through multiple distinctions.

What a time for kids and families. As winds continue to chill and annoy, we grumble through the cold; yet we delight in children’s innocence in facing the fun and beauty of snow and ice; we playfully express jealousy over the tanned ones basking in southern comfort. What beauty and burdens we have here in Michigan.

With the depth of winter, as nature yet awaits its resurrection stirring, we reflect on our common heritage that now unites and launches us toward new realizations of universally shared values, ideals and commitments. How do we as adults, teens, children, couples, families live out the change we wish to see in this world? Do we do this alone and combined with others on similar paths? May we see the possibilities. May we realize the sacrifice and service the world needs, the world that has not had its share of eco justice, housing fairness and across-the-board sharing of its bountiful resources. What will we do? What will we be? How will we share? What will we take on and let go?

May these and other questions guide us into a fuller humanity and into the heart of religion and spiritual practice that truly adds to life and love and the quality of our relationships near and far.

As we live this day, let us be mindful of our words and actions. May we be aware that in seeing everyone else, we face ourselves. In every act to others, we act upon ourselves. What we do to ourselves, we do to others. May this heightened sense of unity drive us to more intimate and tender exchanges with and for each other.

And now we affirm our connectedness to those we love, those we know, those we work with, those friends and family members dear to us. Let us think globally and act locally in providing love, care, support, advocacy and encouragement to those in need. Let us not forget. Let us not take for granted another’s presence. Let us go out of our way today to act, be, grow, serve and dance.

And, as ever, we remember millions in this world whose most basic needs are unmet: food, water, housing, medicine, affection. Let us be broken and healed and set loose again for the world, for our communities, for our neighborhood, for our families, for our kids, for ourselves. All in honor of God, of an eternal and universal Christlikeness, of life, of the unfolding universe…and of all gathered who are extensions of the most incredible, juicy, amazing, gritty stuff of life. Amen.

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