Caroling Dusk/Your Hands

by Angelina Weld Grimké

YOUR HANDS

      I love your hands:They are big hands, firm hands, gentle hands;Hair grows on the back near the wrist . . . .I have seen the nails broken and stainedFrom hard work.And yet, when you touch me,I grow small . . . . . . . and quiet . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . And happy . . . . . . . .If I might only grow small enoughTo curl up into the hollow of your palm,Your left palm,Curl up, lie close and cling, So that I might know myself always there,. . . . . . . Even if you forgot.