‘My Mom, Agnes Johann, holding her great granddaughter, Nadia Jane Krenn” Photo taken by Jane H. Johann c.2009

holy hands of a mother…

delicately, the tender hands hold the newborn child

carefully, the hands prepare nourishing meals for this new life

hands so deftly created and styled

holy hands of the artist…

the fingers and thumb raise the clay

the palm of the hand cushions the brush’s handle

the movement of the arm controlling the pen for the day

holy hands of need…

hands grasping…looking for the steady confidence of friend

hands outstretched, seeking help

hands vulnerable, courageously seeking a mend

holy hands of friendship…

hands palms open, hands open for receiving

hands holding on to one another

hand saying hello and releasing

holy hands of love

hands expressing gentle acceptance

hands healing without reluctance

hands of love, gracious presence

“A Great Grandmother’s Kiss” December 26, 2008. Photo credit: c. Jane H. Johann. 2008