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Today, I am sharing the stories of my ancestors

in the hall where elected officials once shared

their vision for the future of our nation

I am singing the welcoming songs

inviting the ancestors into this hall

to see the future that we are creating

I am telling the stories from the dawn of time

praying for another sunrise

on a nation created for the equality of all humankind

I am striving to live in that light

that shines brightest from the ones who walked before us

in beauty, in truth, in love

Striving to share that love, this truth, yes, beauty

reflected in the eyes of those who listen most deeply

to the old songs, made new, on this day, for all of you…

I love you, whoever you are, take my hand,

and let us walk together, in beauty

let us walk together, in beauty

in beauty we walk together