We live in a world of diversity: of thought, of gender identity, of political persuasion, of culture and race, of religious commitment or lack thereof. And yet, we are all here together, experiencing the same range of emotions, faced with the same challenges, trying desperately to navigate life with grace and integrity. May our conversations be civil. May our compassion run deep and flow wide. May our patience be absolute. May our respect be manifest. For all of Us, in our diversity, we give thanks. Blessed Be, and Amen.