Hands

I'm so blessed to have two functional hands with all ten fingers (thumbs included).

For whatever reason, today I was paying attention to how much I do with my hands. What a blessing it is to have both of them and in such great shape. I can honestly say that my fingers are quite strong thanks to all the crimping I did this summer, rock climbing *smug smile*.

Typing now would not be as smooth and easy if it weren't for all my capable little fingers, obeying the commands I send from the brain to the fingertips.
I'm grateful that they are still capable of experiencing sensation and that they are, indeed, obedient.

Hands.

Go figure.

I can feed myself with these hands. . . emphasize a funny climax when I'm telling a story, carry my books, secure a baby in my arms, scratch my puppies ears sufficiently, ROCK CLIMB, tie my shoes, catch a softball, wipe my eyes, blow my nose, break off a piece of delicious chocolate, strum the guitar, play the piano, give a friend a high-five, blow a kiss, make a fist--the list is endless.
Some people, for whatever reason, do not have all these capabilities or full function-ability of their upper extremities. . . . what a blessing it is for me to not have to go through such a trial. . . .

I'm reminded of a story of two brothers.
These young men lived somewhere in the countryside of Germany during the Northern Renaissance Period.
They were bright and talented in the arts showing great potential. Each had a desire to go to college and learn more about art and further their talents.
However, when the time came for the two brothers to go to college, an issue arose to the attention of the family. Unfortunately, they could only afford to send one. . . The brothers decided while one of them was at school furthering his education and enhancing his skills, the other would stay home and work and support that brother and then they would trade off in a few years.

Albrecht Durer was the brother chosen to go and learn first. His brother, in the meantime, dutifully worked and supported him. If my memory is good, I believe the brother worked as a blacksmith or in some kind of occupation where it required constant use of his hands and hard labor.
When Albrecht returned home after receiving a fine education and with polished artistic skills, he came home to a loving brother. . . . whose hands and artistic career were ruined from the loyal hours of supporting Albrecht. Because of Albrecht's brother, Albrecht was able to share his talent in woodcarvings and paintings with the world and is known as one of Germany's finest Renaissance artists. . . his brother injured his hands to the extent of no longer being able to even hold a paintbrush correctly in order for Albrecht to have such golden opportunities. . .
Albrecht Durer immortalized his loving brother's sacrifice through his drawings of hands in a series called "The Study of Hands."

What a beautiful story of love and sacrifice. . . . 

Appreciate your hands and their ability to let you do what you want to do and aid you in becoming who you want to be. 

Your hands are a blessing.