Rancher's Hand

A rancher's hand could be a man's, a woman's, a grown child or a very young child.

A rancher's hand might be missing a thumb or a finger or two from headin and heelin or wrapped in wire.

Scars from burns, wire and knife cuts are visible too. 

Chunks of skin could be missing from getting pinched in rope, baling twine or some other dreaded condition.

No matter what the size they could be rough from the harsh cold winter air chopping ice for livestock. They could be soft to hold on a wee youngin too.

What can't be seen is the strength in those hands working every day to provide for animals, family, church and community. The unsaid words in the handshake will offer great care in end of life, malady, and birth. The soft touch from a pat of a caring little hand because they too understand.

The rancher's hands prepare food from the heart for the body and soul in clouded and joyful times.

They clap with soul to songs at worship, school, and a rodeo dance or two. The hands quietly drum a beat listening to string instruments and the harmonica played on the front porch or in the truck with the radio on.

A rancher's hand can pen a letter, poem or song and don't wait long to raise a bid to help others along.

The rancher's hand drives miles and miles to watch the children, help a neighbor, to ensure voices are heard by local, state and national legislation.

The rancher's hand endears little ones so gingerly. They take great care of young animals to start them right at all hours of the night. The rancher's hand gives divine dignity to man and creature at end of life.

A rancher's hand may be missing from serving his country, an accident, or infirmity. They don't express regret nor hail scrutiny as the strength is still there.

A rancher's hand yields action for good things in the vision of God.