Invocation to Sjofn

from the Pagan Book of Hours

Hail, Maiden of affection
Who turns the hearts not only of lovers
But of family and friends toward each other!
You who are the comforting embrace,
The hand on the bowed shoulder,
The shoulder to weep on in times of need,
The caring word and the grasp of greeting,
The smile that for that moment is for one alone,
Teach not to forget that affection
Is no mean and petty virtue,
Lest we find our hearts turned to stone
And Love no longer able to enter.

comforting