As evidenced by last week’s debut set photo, principal photography is now underway on a brand new Star Wars film.  That’s an exciting prospect in and of itself, and while we really don’t know much about Star Wars: Episode VII other than the fact that the original trilogy cast is returning and it’s a sequel to Return of the Jedi (obviously), it’s neat to think that right now, at this very moment, a new Star Wars movie is being made.  To mark the beginning of production, director J.J. Abrams shared an encouraging note with his cast and crew, and the note has now made its way online.  If you’re looking for story clues or Easter Eggs, you’ll be sorely disappointed, but it’s nice to see how much Abrams cares about the many, many folks that are working hard to bring this film to fruition.

Hit the jump to check out the note and to read Abrams’ words of encouragement yourself.  The film stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Max von Sydow, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew, and Kenny BakerStar Wars: Episode VII arrives in theaters on December 18, 2015.

Check out Abrams’ note in full below (via ScreenCrush), followed by a transcription in case you can’t quite make out the handwriting.

star-wars-7-note-jj-abrams

Dearest Cast and Crew, What an honor it is to work beside all of you, on Star Wars Ep VII. I can’t thank you enough, for all work past and future. Let’s take good care of not just ourselves, but of each other. Amazing, but true: the world awaits this film. Let’s give ‘em something GREAT. xo JJ

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