To have and to lose: this is our human condition. Through struggle, or gift, we gain that which, through struggle or gift, is taken away. Transient experiences of life elude our attempts to retain them. We learn that our humanity is finite; our lives but a vapour; our loves and hates live on in others, if they live at all. The small steps we take are as nothing. The earth revolves around the sun and its cycles diminish, even more, our grasp on time and space. But you ... in your birth you bore the hope of nations. In your life dwelt all the Godhead, bodily. In your sacrifice is forgiveness for all who call. In your resurrection death, and all its power, is defeated. And then, at your Ascension, the Gift was promised ... Incarnate Presence, restored with a more glorious Indwelling. Your heavenly humanity is all gain and, by your Spirit, you fill us with the light of your Day ... ... turning our shadows into everlasting Dawn.