We have come a long way
once separated by categories
and not knowing each other
today we are brothers
and there is beauty in knowing
We have come a long way
we first spent time seeing each other
listening to each other
getting to know hearts
understanding our values and what motivates us
and what causes pain and suffering
Over time, we decided to go a long way
to never grow apart
to take action as if
we are each other
to celebrate each other
to be champions for each other
We have come a long way
with so much to do
and change needed in the world
we change by being in each other’s presence
by having fun and laughing
and enjoying the simplicity of sitting together
We sure have come a long way
and continue to create space
to believe in each other
to push each other to be our best
to disagree with civility
to show up in the tough moments
and to apologize
when we make mistakes
or don’t bring our best
this is what it means
to go a long way with someone
at times it is hard
in a world that feels like it wants separation
each day we show up
and stand firm together
growing so much
asking each other tough questions
Because we have come a long way
this morning I am so grateful
for my brothers who have been
with me through so much
and remind me of the power
of deciding
to go a long way.
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Original handwritten below…
