Mama’s Hankie

I wasn’t always tattered;

I wasn’t always torn.

I didn’t always look so limp,

So tired and forlorn.

Once my threads were crisper,

My colors seemed to glow;

But I was harsh against a face

When tears would start to flow.

So I traded in my beauty

For softer threads of years,

So I could fit into your hand

And gather all your tears.

So treasure all my careworn threads –

In time they’ll fall apart;

And take with you the tenderness

And love that’s in my heart.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. –Proverbs 31:30 NIV