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 these 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