Despite everything...

Today I got a compliment about how lovely my hands are.

I couldn't help the first words out my mouth, 

"These hands?" I asked while shaking my fists in the attendants face. He nodded in the affirmative.

Hours later I kept pondering on my earlier interaction. Was his compliment genuine or a product of pure courtesy? Maybe it was just an offhanded comment because I am positive he had only glanced at my hands. 

Later that evening I took a good look at my hands. I've had them for 25 years but I have never taken the time to look at them, really look at them. Talk more of admiring them. I use them alright, run them through my hair when I'm frustrated, use them to receive parcels and give some family and friends a handshake or pat on the back here or there. 

But look at them? really look at them? I never have. 

Yes I glance at them... Occasionally.

The longest I've had to look would be while washing my hands.

Maybe while tying my shoelace, taking notes or buttoning my shirt. 

Not necessarily in admiration. Just some sort of assurance that my clumsiness at performing these mundane tasks stem from laziness and not temporary paralysis. 

But...

These hands have served me. These hands have saved me.

These hands save me. These hands serve me.

To a stranger they might be perfect but all I see are working tools. 

Raising them to the moonlight, I smile.

"Thank You hands for remaining a blessing. Its surprising how despite everything... You still look pretty amazing! Even worthy of compliments".

We may never fully appreciate every part of our body but they distinguish us from everyone else. These parts are unique to us. The peculiarity of every slope, curve, texture and design makes us attractive to people around us. Appreciate your body today because despite everything, it still serves you.

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