Weathered Hands Are Beautiful

This scene occurred just days before she died. Somehow I made it through before I cried. While pale and weak, eyes closed, in bed she lay, I thought of all the things I longed to say. I whispered “Beautiful" and kissed each hand. Confused, Mom said, "What? I don’t understand.” “Your HANDS,” I said. She answered, “They’re worn out and wrinkled. That’s what aging’s all about.” I said, “You’ve worked and cared, as mothers should. Strong hands and loving heart made life so good! With smiles and hugs for all your family, you made us safe and happy as could be. Again I say, about these hands I hold, they're beautiful, and you are good as gold.”