Life it seems, can be certain of one thing only-
and that is its very uncertainty.
Sometimes despite our best intentions,
shared will, and deepest wishes,
we find ourselves standing at a cross roads
with a beloved wondering how to proceed-
knowing that a fork will be taken, that the distance will widen,
and that there will be no turning back.
We two now stand together in such a place,
bewildered at our arrival here, questioning
the forces which have brought us hence.
Therefore, let us pause for just a moment
to offer a blessing and a prayer of release.
Before we embark each apart, fixed on a destiny, bound for an unknown future,
let us remember with love, from whence we came.
Not every relationship lasts forever, we have seen.
Some people come for a season only,
envoys from The Beloved who arrive
bearing wisdom as teachers of self knowledge.
The price for this knowledge is sadly at times, the cost
of the very relationship itself and here we now find ourselves,
somewhat saddened by the expenses due for
for the gifts we have received.
Let us not weep for what we are losing,
but rather give thanks for all we have gained.
Let us bless The Beloved for our finding, loving, wrestling, and departing.
Let us remember what has been given, each through the other
so that in looking back, we remember not the cracks and flaws in the vessel,
but rather the forging, the heat, and the intensity of the Refiner’s fire,
for it is this fire that burns away all impurities.
Go now beloved, with this prayer of release,
with this blessing for your travels from my heart to yours:
you are loved, you are seen, you are forgiven and free.
All the days of my life I will carry you with me,
grateful to have known you for even a time,
sorrowful that our paths have diverged,
but wiser, deeper, and more compassionate
for the encounter.
Amen.