These Hands Of Mine Poem by Emma Beverage

these hands of mine
are strong, and kind
rough, working hands,
they’ve paid their dues.
they milked the cow
when I was young,
fed chickens too
they have played sports
upon the courts
won ribbons too
these hands of mine
can write a rhyme
sketch a bit as well
lived for all it’s worth
held two babies,
after giving birth
these hands are strong
they have worked long
sought great spirit
through it all
traveled coast to coast
not to boast
crossed our borders
both north and south.
caressed a lover’s mouth.
held a rising sun
chased a lonely moon
whistled out of tune.
held on when we
could not win
had the courage
to start again
stood my ground
when I was right
did my best
to avoid a fight
apologized
when I was wrong
learned from mistakes
then traveled on.
my skin wrinkled
with my age
forgetful now
still I’m a sage
I’m hoping the best
is still to come
before I rest
and life is done.


2/23/06