A Baby's Hand

I stumbled on this quote while searching for something else on the web. It was sweet to read...

First, let us consider the hand of a child. Who among us has not praised God and marveled at his powers when an infant is held in one’s arms? That tiny hand, so small yet so perfect, instantly becomes the topic of conversation. No one can resist placing a little finger in the clutching hand of an infant. A smile comes to the lips, a certain glow comes to the eyes, and one appreciates the tender feelings that prompted the poet to pen the lines:

A baby … that sweet new blossom of humanity, fresh fallen from God’s own home to flower on earth.

As the child grows, the tightly clutched hand opens in an expression of perfect trust. “Take me by the hand, Mother; then I won’t be afraid,” bespeaks this confidence. The delightful song the little children sing so beautifully at once becomes a plea for patience, an invitation to teach, and an opportunity to serve:

I have two little hands, folded snugly and tight. They are tiny and weak, yet they know what is right. During all the long hours till daylight is through, There is plenty indeed for my two hands to do.

Kind Father, I thank thee for two little hands And ask thee to bless them till each understands That children can only be happy all day When two little hands have learned how to obey.

(Children’s Songbook, no. 272.)

Ensign » 1990 » August
First Presidency MessageHands
By President Thomas S. MonsonSecond Counselor in the First Presidency