“These Hands”

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, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to 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, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other.

These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind.

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.

These are the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.

These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.

And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be

reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a

touch..”

“May these hands always hold each other. May they build a relationship founded

in love, and rich in caring. Our hope for you today is that both of you will use your

hands to build a marriage where all your dreams come true.”