There is something about hands for me. Work worn hands. Busy hands. Holding hands. Calloused hands. Soft, child hands. Warm hands. Strong hands.
When my Grandma died almost 3 years ago. The thing that I pictured when I thought of her (and it had been years since I'd seen her) was her sweet hands. I could absolutely see them in my mind's eye. All of the veins and details. I remember those hands playing cards with me and baking cookies with me and holding mine, guiding me in the world.
When she died, I realized that I had no more elderly people in my life at that time (none that belonged to me anymore). That realization came on my way home from the funeral at the airport. I saw sweet grandmotherly types and no longer had my own which made me sad and miss those dear hands.
Today, I loved seeing this older man's hands busy at work, crafting and creating a bonsai tree. I walked past and went back for a photo. A photo of the hands.
Thinking of hands reminds me of the hands that took the nails for me and for all of us. The one who hands were pierced. And who died. And who rose again so that we might live right with God. He is why I celebrate Easter. The man whose hands I hope give me a high five someday when my life here is done or even a big encircling hug. The ultimate hands.
I love this shot, Amanda. Your story about your grandmother is so touching and lets us into your life a bit more. My grandmother that lived in San Francisco died when I was 9. How I missed so many special things. You were so lucky to have your grandmother as long as you did. It was such a different time and the hands were used for so many things as you have said. Such a wonderful shot and so deep. FAV
This is a wonderful portrait! And I agree with you about hands... they have such character, a history to tell... and I love your thoughts about the nail scarred hands of our Redeemer. Have a wonderful Easter! (Fav)
I never had grandparents but I know what you mean by the hands. They are an extension of our minds and do as they are told! This guy knows what he is doing!
Wonderfully captured, Amanda. Thank you so much for sharing about your grandma, very beautiful and touching. I never knew my grandmothers, but I had the privilege of knowing my husband's grandma who treated me like one of her own. She passed away three years ago. I posted a picture of her holding hands with my husband from our last visit with her before she passed away. http://365project.org/juliac/365/2014-02-12
Your beautiful tender words about our Savior's hands giving high-5's and big hugs brought tears in my eyes. Happy Resurrection Sunday, Amanda!
hands tell great stories - i remember seeing my dad's hands in a pair of fingerless gloves when i went home one winter and thinking "oh, you got old!" lovely shot and text
Lovely shot Amanda, and powerful words. We spent several hours with my in laws today, who are in their 70s though spritely, and your words make me realise it wasn't enough.
You write very well, so that I can feel your emotions. Its a funny thing how roles reverse as we age. Most of the people I am with are elderly now, and it is a delight when we have an opportunity to spend time with younger people, and especially kids. My church is extremely small here in the country, and we had 14 for Easter today, but three were little girls, and it made this special day even more special. Your hand photo, and the man's concentration is very well done.
Wonderful shot and processing but the fav goes in equal amount to your touching words. Whilst I am not religious, I am a very spiritual person and your words are beautiful :-)
What a beautiful image. Bonsai work requires concentration and patience and diligence, all of which are exhibited here. Beautiful focus on his hands, which make bonsai happen.
I am absolutely on the same wavelength with you about the love of hands. There is a sign for that concept (being on the same brainwave with someone) in American Sign Language, and considering the topic of hands I definitely have to "show" it to you!
The sentiment, story, and visual elements of this image are nothing short of gorgeous.
@seanoneill Thanks so much, Sean. There is never enough time. It's tough. I've been thinking about my own parents lately and seeing them aging. Must make it a priority to spend time with them while I can. Love that we live close and can see each other pretty often.
Really appreciate your beautiful words and thoughts, my friends. Thank you so much. This one was a special one from the day.
Your beautiful tender words about our Savior's hands giving high-5's and big hugs brought tears in my eyes. Happy Resurrection Sunday, Amanda!
@tonydebont really appreciate that, tony!! Thank you!
@rvwalker Such a neat perspective, Ross. Love that you got to enjoy the 3 little girls at church for Easter. Thanks for the kind words. too!
@kwind Isn't it amazing how memorable they are? Thanks!
@jyokota @susale thanks for the kind comments, my friends!
The sentiment, story, and visual elements of this image are nothing short of gorgeous.
@eyesmile Wow, Gena. Thank you so much for that. Very appreciated.
@snaphappi Thanks, Maggie. So glad he wasn't bothered by my snap:).