These hands that I have

These hands that I have
lined, scarred, calloused
tell quiet stories
of patience, pain, love

My palms are unique
lines identify
ever flowing paths
whisper mystery

Bite on my finger
from a dog far gone
I did my duty
to the cat I held

This scar on my wrist
speaks of surgery
traumatic abuse
the healing process

Mistakes on my joints
skin peeled in anger
forever marring
knuckles and fingers

Scratches from goat horns
happy times from work
processing a herd
farm work for school

Where my ring cut
when i struck in rage
my temper flared.  Now,
remembered control

Finger distorted
callous grown obese
gorged on writing, drawing
Art's mark on my hand

These hands recall
a lifetime of things
inscribed on myself
indelible tales