And Counting

This Hand

Has held History, 

For 98 years and Counting.

It has turned a jump rope, shot marbles,  put a worm on a hook.

It has written to a brother stationed around the world and

comforted a mother who lost a son. 

It has written on chalk boards and graded papers.

It has held the hand of a husband,

And rocked babies to sleep.

It has shelled peas on hot summer days,

And built snowmen on cold winter days.

But mostly,

It has touched so many loved ones with gentle love pats and tight embraces. 

This Hand 

Has held the Future 

For 4 days and Counting.

It will build toy creations, pick up rocks, catch firefliess. 

It will tap on keyboards, and hold books. 

It will hold a kayak paddlle  on hot summer days

And build snow forts on cold winter days. 

And if it is lucky,

It will hold the hand of a beloved,

And rock babies to sleep.

 I hope it will reach out to touch the world with wonder and joy.

Both Hands,

Old and Young,

Worn and New

Hold a part of my World, 

A twist of my DNA, 

And Forever

A piece of my Heart. 

63 Years and Counting.