When the sermon ended, I stood and started toward Abbot Levinsky, only to notice Jace was there too.

The first time I attended something like this, Jace had brought me. Back then, I thought it was boring. But when I realized it gave him a sense of peace, I started coming along. At first, it was for him, but over time, I found meaning in it for myself. Eventually, I began to appreciate these moments of reflection and even joined in some of the rituals.

After Jace and I drifted apart, I still came occasionally on my own. Now, running into him here again, we were little more than strangers.

He gave me a small nod of acknowledgment, and together we approached Abbot Levinsky for a symbolic blessing. This wasn’t something offered at every service, so catching it. today felt like a bit of serendipity.

The ceremony was meant to represent letting go of past burdens and embracing a fresh start. Whether it worked or not, people often found comfort in the idea.

Afterward, Jace and I left the hall side by side. He broke the silence, his voice low. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

“I came to clear my head,” I said.