Why it took me eight decades to realize the value of holding hands baffles this octogenarian.
I’ve never done much hand holding. In fact, I guess our daughter’s hand was relegated to the hand of my wife as she matured.
That actually saddens me. Yes, I was involved in many aspects of her early years, but never became a tried and true hand holder.
She got plenty of hugs and special time with Dad; however, I cannot recall much time at all holding Faith’s hands.
Of late, as Janet and I leisurely walk around our quiet neighborhood, we’ve both experienced the intrinsic value of holding hands as we walk together for the first time in our lives.
We’ve graduated to interlocking our fingers and sensing a closeness that has become a wonderful blessing, and I sense our 40-year relationship has grown dramatically.
As we walk, we also talk without the chatter of distractions prevalent in the midst of our home.
I’ve been browsing through my only published book of poetry, So We Might Grow, since a talented friend recently scanned and produced a PDF version of my literary work.
One of the poems written nearly 40 years ago, “The Boulder That Wouldn’t Budge,” actually presents the concept of holding hands.
Let me share the final four verses suggesting a solution to the removal of the proverbial boulder described in that poem:
“Per chance the task at hand could be done with ease. With patient thoughtful actions our path can be cleared. Some will use logic, others emotion — but, listen to me please. United in loving visions, hands held taut with our God endeared.”
Yes, through the years I’ve gradually come to realize holding hands with fellow believers can be a worthwhile endeavor.
These days, I’m often in prayer with others, holding hands and sending up petitions of prayer and praise to our Heavenly Father.
There’s something very special that takes place when a small group of two, three or four grasp hands and carry on a conversation with our Father in Heaven.
It certainly seems He listens to unselfish heartfelt corporate prayers with hands held taut more intently than my individual petitions.
As a child of God, I cherish those occasions when I sense His very presence. It’s as if His hand was actually holding mine and guiding me through the circumstances of life.
He is our Comforter and He’ll never let go of His children. My prayer is that you would come to know and trust God and sense His presence in your life!