Gimme Five

How much power does the human hand hold? A firm handshake speaks volumes over a limp grip. A gentle touch, a caress or a stroke are pleasing sensations generated by the human hand. An itch can be relieved and cool fingers ease a hot forehead. Your hand can scream at a crazy driver with certain gestures, or with a quick flip of the wrist, it makes a perfect tool to ward off uneasy conversations. Recently, on an episode of "Glee," Kurt sang a tearful rendition of the Beatles' classic hit, "I Want To Hold Your Hand." Today, gazing at an ultrasound picture, five fingers waved at me through a tiny cell phone screen. I counted them to make certain. Fluorescent bones illuminated the hand, which appeared larger than the head, showing the world a perfect high-five. Instantly, I yearned to take my new grandchild's hand inside my own, gloving the minute appendage with unconditional love. The Bible tells us to lend a helping hand, to be a helping hand. I thought about that today. And the myriad of ways God caresses us in his loving hands. So, I clicked on the message in my inbox once again, peering at the elfin high-five, and wondered to myself if this unborn child hasn't already figured this all out.