Blessing of the Hands - A beautiful wedding ceremony reading

I recently officiated a wedding that included a hand-fasting ceremony.  It was truly one of the most touching and beautiful ceremony elements I can recall.  The couple held each other's hands while I wrapped them together with a lovely cord. The cord represented the spiritual bond of their marriage.  As they stood looking at one another, hands entwined, I read the following:

"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."

The moment was intimate and profound.  The couple plan to use the cord in their home as a momento of their ceremony.  I am happy to share this idea with you in hopes that it will inspire you to personalize your own ceremony!