Take my hand, mama says.
We train in safety
as soon as we can walk.

Everyone hold hands, teacher says.
We hold tight
as kindergarten crosses the street.

Give me your hand, a friend says.
We link loosely
as we step across the flooded curb.

Clasped hands
   in love
   in dance
   in comfort
   in closing prayer.

Let's hold hands, we yelled.
We gripped hard
as we jumped out over the last divide.
Hand in hand.

Lee Sept. 29, 2001