We are grateful for the many gifts we receive from each other daily: compassion, care, thick listening, deep connecting. Material gifts are merely symbols of a more profound sharing. It is good to give and receive, with gratitude and appreciation for the true meaning of the gift. It is not a commercial transaction: if I give you this I expect to receive that. Rather, it is a covenantal transaction, an understanding of how we will be together. Let us give in this deep relational sense, and receive with gratitude and humility. We are blessed, and we give thanks. Blessed Be, and Amen.