Let us center ourselves in God’s holy presence as I read this poem called “Shine” by Diane Smigielski-Schilling, in acknowledgement of your work for the common good:
For just this Moment, and the Next,
Do not believe that this world cannot feel the Incredible Gift that you have been given and Hold.
There is no comparison to You.
There will always be another ahead of and just behind you on the Path.
One is beckoning for you to follow in the wake of their Wisdom,
the other is clinging to you for Hope and Guidance.
Are you to be the Student or the Teacher?
You have been granted the pleasure of experiencing both,
As they are meant to be One.
What this world has led us to believe as strengths and weaknesses,
are the Tools that have been given to Carve out our Unique Purpose.
It is time, Dear [Senator, Staff Member, Guest], to allow the Art of your Life to be Seen and Heard
from every angle of the beautiful Sculpture you are Creating.
Consider with Love, that all who are receiving your Gift, are doing so
from the Breath of this Moment we are stepping Upon.
Loving God, we ask You to be with us in this moment as we seek to carve out our unique purpose with all its challenges and creativity.—AMEN.