THE BLESSING OF THE HANDS

RYAN  & IZEL  
Please face each other  
and TAKE EACH OTHER'S HANDS,  
so that you may see the gift  
that they are to you.  
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
of your best friend,  
Young and strong and full of love for you.
 
THESE ARE THE HANDS
that are holding yours on your wedding
day as you promise each other  
love each other today, tomorrow and forever.  
 
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will work alongside yours  
as together you build your future.  
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will passionately love you  
and cherish you through the years,  
 
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
with the slightest touch  
will comfort you like no other.  
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will hold you when fear or grief
temporarily comes to you.  
 
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will countless times
wipe the tears from your eyes,
tears of sorrow and tears of joy.  
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will tenderly hold your children,  
THE HANDS that will join your family as one.  
 
THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that will give you strength when you need it,
Will give support and encouragement  
to pursue your dreams,  
and comfort through difficult times.
 
And lastly, THESE ARE THE HANDS  
that even when wrinkled and aged  
will still be reaching for yours,  
still giving you unspoken tenderness  
with just one touch.
 
THIS IS THE BLESSING OF THE HANDS