You can look at someone’s face and understand what they’ve been through. You can look into their eyes and know how they’re feeling. Hands can also tell stories about people – from the kind of work they do to some of the experiences they’ve been through.
Today I look at my hands in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, and it’s hard to remember my usual perfect ten Ballet Slippers manicure. Heck, I actually don’t even remember the last time I put on my wedding rings. Today my hands reveal my current battle scars. They are unpolished and bruised with small cuts and open wounds. They are chipped, rough to the touch. They tell a story of hardship, fear, strength, love, and so much more.
Today my hands…
…made this mama the most delicious cup of coffee, of which I savored every sip to have the energy and motivation to make it through the day.
…laid out my children’s clothes and brushed their hair so that they would believe it was just like any other day and they were headed off to school, except it was “Mommy School,” today and every day for the unforeseen future.
…took out my children’s vitamins and made them the healthiest breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so they would be at their optimum health and would be able to fight whatever germs would come our way.
…wrote a lesson plan and schedule just like their teacher, trying our best to keep a routine.
…held their little hands as we walked around our desolate neighborhood exploring and enjoying the peaceful sounds of church bells, birds chirping, scurrying squirrels, and every so often a car passing by. We waved to the brave souls who walked their dogs and made sure to keep our 6ft.+ distance.
…used my pointer finger as a “ready finger” as I read alongside my kindergartener.
…did a zillion loads of laundry, which included everything and anything that touched the outside world, and every single thing that was made of fabric in our house. Not to mention my hourly Lysol wipe down of all surfaces.
…wiped away tears from my son’s face as he fell off his scooter on our daily scoot around the neighborhood.
…dialed our closest family members and friends checking in on their health, wellness, and sanity.
…were washed a million zillion times to keep my family safe and to keep giving them all that I have to give in such difficult times.
…blessed ourselves as we said our nightly prayers before bed. We prayed for good health and wellness for all our family and friends around the world.
…washed my face at the very end of the day to wipe away and erase everything that we faced today.
I look forward to tomorrow with strength and hope.
Nelson Mandela once said, “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.” We have to hang in there strong mamas. There will be a light at the end of the tunnel, but for now, just stay strong and take each day as it comes. Enjoy these precious moments with your family.
