There are a number of expressions associated with hands.
Among them are “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.” “One hand can’t clap.” “Empty-handed.” “Having dirty hands.” “Hands on.” “Handy.” “My hands are tied.” “Hands Down.” They each have their unique meanings and help bring clarity to, and, or, enhance our utterances.
Our own physical hands are themselves useful in a variety of ways to include our own personal hygiene. One can only imagine the difficulty encountered if and when the loss of a hand or hands is experienced, and taking a bath or brushing one’s teeth would then become a major chore. Our hands are also used in adding colour to our verbal and non-verbal communication. Our expressions are made so much more forceful, particularly we West Indians, since we just can’t help ourselves gesticulating, having hands akimbo, or pointing vigorously to drive home our point.
Additionally, our hands take us places, are sometimes the sole source in maintaining our livelihoods. Our hands do an excellent job in showing others we care. They reach out in passionate embrace, they hug tightly with warmth, they reach out in a tender touch that signals good old amour.
Alternately, our hands can be that harsh weapon to inflict horrendous , cruel pain on an unsuspecting or knowledgeable victim or even that dangerous tool wielded calculatingly to injure another’s reputation and take jabs at their character.
I am of the firm view though, that hands represent potential and capability, hence a favourite quote of mine,
“What have you got in your hands?”
It seeks to cause persons to think about innate, personal, professional or environmental resources that are readily available or present to any individual if he or she only looks hard enough to notice what’s there. So with 2022 now facing us directly and steadfastly, it would do some good in thinking about HANDS.
As such, I am proposing a firm focus on HANDS using the acronym with the emphasis on Hope, Act, Never…, Discern, Sit. Whether we believe it or not, everyone possesses some measure of hope. Others are well endowed with gallons, while others are barely holding on to a pint or quart. Whatever the amount, it is prudent that in 2022, we all hope for success. as we take on new projects attempt at attaining new goals or launch forward into new situations. Whatever it is, it is even more prudent to hope for clarity of mind and sensibility of will to see those ventures to fruition. This is because decisions are sometimes difficult to come to terms with and in other instances, one many encounter a situation that requires a snap determination that is practical and wholesome.
Further it is inadvertent that as we hope we will need to take action. In this vein, we should act swiftly to enact positive changes both professionally and personally as well as in the best interest of those we love or even another human who many require our assistance. In acting to effect change we must also be mindful that some persons may not be in our corner. And while we cannot and should not bow to every word, feel overwhelmed or extra sensitive to every ill-utterance we must be willing to act to disappoint those naysayers. They will come in different forms. Some will be downright nosy and inquisitive just for the “going and tell.” Others will be uncaring and malevolent because they are jealous of your progress, while others will simply want you to disappear from the scene only for them to be in the spotlight. The actions that you take in this regard must be aimed at disappointing and nullifying their desires.
To this end, it behoves you to never doubt that you have the ability, potential and capability in being the champion you are. As a result you should never be complacent about getting to your goals and aspirations. Along the way, however, you should never forget where you’ve come from or where you’ve been. This is important in minimising the chances of repeating errors or even become puffed up and arrogant as you progress. The latter is a strong ingredient in the recipe for a great downfall.
Even as you exude positivity and squash the negatives, it is paramount that discernment is employed. For it is sometimes possible that “Little foxes.” will appear. They are great in causing incremental damage overtime so that confidence is eroded. They sometimes show up or remain hidden as nagging negative thoughts from childhood , purposeful labels and stereotypes, past failures or taunting. Being able to determine your setbacks will serve well for improvement. In addition to that the intentions of others must be discerned. It may not be in a manner to make you overly paranoid but to make you aware of “Blockers.” They may joke or tease, critique or move wilily. Their actions may cause you to miss your mark so you must be able to discern the open frontiers and fields that are before you waiting to be conquered. Discernment therefore, is a key part of HANDS.
Ultimately as you forge ahead, there will be moments for you to be able to Sit. As much as you may be extroverted and crave the presence of others, time alone is necessary. Sitting is a need to bring about balance. It encompasses quiet alone time to self-reflect or have “Time Away.” It cannot be overemphasised since it will provide the strength required to press on. I myself enjoy the quiet green space, where wind, sky, birds, flowers or plants envelope me into a peaceful warmth. It will do you good to determine where best suits you for your “Alone Time.”
Finally, but not at all least, sitting in the presence of God either receiving instructions, communing or offering praise is most vital tor your balance and grounding. As a faith-based believer I have found numerous promises, that saves me from downward turns and going over the edge. The world can be a cruel place and other humans are not always who we hope them to be. Covid-19 has been wrenching us back and forth in and out and we are tired of the anxiety, confusion, discord associated with variants, vaccines, restrictions, protocols, mandates and fear of death.
As a result it will make perfect sense sitting alone and with God in order to be refreshed and relieved. So while you use your physical hands if you are able and even if you aren’t. the other HANDS are yours and yours alone. Focus on HANDS and see where it takes you in 2022.
Garden Conversations with Roze 