Do any of you remember Indiebride? It was a wonderful feminist, wedding website that merged with Huffington Post a few years ago. One of the things I used to love about that site was its community forum “Kvetch” which became a massive resource for great ceremony readings. I was so sad when the forum shut down – it was such a great help to me as a bride, not just for the readings, but for all of the interesting issues and debates that were explored there.
In any case, I thought it might be nice to start sharing any beautiful readings that I come across with you! The first is called “Blessing of The Hands”.
Blessing of the Hands – Author Unknown
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 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, 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 the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.
Powerful words! There is an extended version which includes vows for each individual and one which also excludes references to children, all of which you can find here.
