The Praying Hands

A poem by Helen Steiner Rice

The "Praying Hands" are much, much more
than just a work of art,
They are the "Soul's creations"
Of a deeply thankful heart.

They are a priceless masterpiece
that love alone could paint
And they reveal the selflessness
of an unheralded saint.

These hands so scarred and toilworn,
tell the story of a Man
who sacrificed his talent
in accordance with God's plan.

For in God's plans are many things
man cannot understand,
But we must trust God's judgement
and be guided by his Hand.

Sometimes he asks us to give up
our dreams of happiness,
Sometimes we must forego our hopes
of fortune and success

Not all of us can triumph
or rise to heights of fame
And many times, what should be ours
Goes to another name

But, he who makes a sacrifice
so another may succeed,
Is indeed a true disciple
of our blessed Saviour's creed.

For when we "give ourselves away"
in sacrifice and love
We are laying rich treasures
in Gods kingdom high above

And hidden in gnarled, toilworn hands
in the truest Art of living
Achieved alone by those who've learned
the "Victory of Giving."

For any sacrifice on earth
made in the dear Lord's name
Assures the giver of a place
in Heaven's Hall of Fame.

And who can say with certainity
Where the greatest talent lies
Or who will be the greatest
in our heavenly father's eyes.