Today is a good day for redemption.  Not because we are mired in sin or degradation, but because we do not always live up to our full potential; we are not always our best selves.  Redemption does not imply some sort of ultimate salvation: it means we will re-engage with the social covenant to respect human worth and dignity, our own and that of all others.  We will practice compassion and share our love, and the world – even if it just our own little world – will be a better place.  For our redemption we give thanks.  Blessed Be, and Amen.