Rach challenged us to post a picture of our hands so that our children would be able to remember the pair that cared for them. Here is my effort – blisters, bitten fingernails and all!
These hands have held you everyday
have picked you up,
brushed tears away.
Have washed you,
cleaned you,
combed your hair.
helped you onto a bike
and into a chair
Have tickled your tummy to make you sing
have pushed you higher on the swing
Have put cream on every sort of rash
Changed a million nappies in a dash.
Have held your hand
as you crossed the street
put bandaids on your little feet
Have held you to my breast to drink
have cleaned you in the kitchen sink!
Have taken you to school and play
and waved goodbye as you walked away
Have wiped your nose
your hands and face
your fingerprints
all over the place
have stroked your cheek
when you’re fast asleep
caressed away the fears
that monsters creep
Have clasped them in a silent prayer
when things have been too much to bear
And held them to my head in vain
when you’ve been screaming out in pain.
And even though they’re rough and worn
They held you first when you were born
So, look at these hands,
as somewhere in time
You’ll be able to recall
that these hands are mine.