Love of the Hand Lotion

From FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, Today, 27-May-2008 edition

 

Love of the Hand Lotion

By Dr James Dobson

 

My friend, Mimi Wilson, tells of a simple experience she once shared

with her daughter Kendra.

 

Kendra was in university at the time, and having a great deal

of trouble in her studies. She was preparing for an important exam

but just couldn’t seem to concentrate.

 

Mimi wanted to help, but her daughter had already surpassed her

academically. So, she took out a bottle of lotion and began rubbing it

into her daughter’s hands, saying: “Kendra, this is my favourite lotion.

Tonight, while you’re studying and during the test tomorrow, when

you find yourself having trouble, just smell your handles and know

that I’ll be thinking of you.”

 

Well, it was just what Kendra needed. Some years later, Mimi was

confiding in Kendra about a very difficult situation in her life.

Kendra reached into her purse, brought out a bottle of lotion,

and began rubbing it into her mother’s hands. Neither one

had to say a word. It was a simple, reassuring gesture of love,

from daughter to mother. But it was all Mimi needed to get through

that trying period.

 

We all go through stressful and challenging times, and when they come,

we need to know that someone is there for us, no matter what.

And that’s what families are all about – bringing hope in times of despair

and strength in times of weakness. And you might find, like Mimi

and Kendra, that a symbol of your love speaks even more loudly

than words when the pressure is on.