Holding Hands 1



How is it that holding hands can communicate so much?

Whether we are holding the hand of a lover, our children, friends or a person in need, we are sending messages and feeling a connectedness that is often difficult to describe.

Recently I came across a woman standing on the traffic island in the middle of a busy intersection. She was holding a cardboard sign indicating she was homeless and looking for work or financial help. I could see her from afar as I edged towards the ever-changing traffic lights. I felt a deep compassion watching her standing steady and well-groomed, head held high but desperate. As I drew close, I wound down my window and called to her. I gave her a small amount of money but took her hand and held onto it for just a moment as I told her, “I hope life in the future goes well for you. I hope these days get better.” She smiled. She didn’t look away. Neither of us did.

Holding another person’s hands in their darkest of days reminds them they are seen and not alone. That they have value and potential. That hope continues to exist in a sea of desperation.

Holding hands can communicate so much. And I don’t really know why at all.


About Kelley

Kelley is a speaker, author, overseas aid worker and perpetual student. She is passionate about women and gender issues, both in the local and international context, which underpins her enthusiasm for kinwomen and its contribution to women ‘living their finest life’. In 2014 Kelley completed a Masters in International and Community Development before establishing The Foxglove Project. Foxglove is a registered charity focused on supporting international development projects that are sustainable and driven by indigenous leadership. Kelley’s paid work requires her to travel extensively to evaluate and support projects supported by Australian funds. This experience and networking enables Foxglove to partner with outstanding overseas agencies delivering real opportunities for the poor and vulnerable to lead independent self-determined lives. Kelley combines these passions with a love of family and faith. Across more than 30 years of marriage, Kelley and her husband have worked through many of the challenges of building a relationship while raising three sons. Their boys have now finished high school changing the dynamics of family life and relationships. One of her great joys is sharing parenting lessons and learning from good and bad (sometimes disastrous) experiences. She uses humour and common sense to talk about the everyday challenges facing parents in today’s context.

One thought on “Holding Hands

  • Elaine Fraser

    A beautiful story, Kelley. I love the connection of holding hands.

    I saw it in schools in difficult situations with kids. Often a touch or even holding hands (in the right setting and with parents there) has dissolved stress and opened he door to communication.

    At the end of the day, we’re all just walking each other home. Xxx

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