Tiny fingers, delicately pink,

graced with paper-thin nails.

Amazing miracle, there are ten,

with even smaller toes

to count again and again.

Small, soiled from mud pies

and dirt highways in

the backyard’s empire,

his hands carry golden gifts

of dandelion desire.

His hand raises for a

high five from the team –

scraped, scabbed and rough;

then he signals to the stands,

a sign for Mom of love.

Running out the door --

first date awaits.

Mom’s heart expands

as he pauses to blow

a kiss from his hand.

Cap, gown and smiles cover him

as he crosses the stage,

left hand diploma,

right hand shake

then both raised for his hurrah..

His hand holds a tinier one,

his eyes fill with tears and love

for the miracle in his life.

He counts her ten fingers

then smiles at his wife.

His hand, once so small,

now covers Mom’s as she rests.

Her life slows, yet she fears not --

she leaves the world in his hands

He has passed the test.