The Kissing Hand
Every year around this time, I think about the children's book The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn. It was a lifesaver when my son was little and worried about the unknown of starting all-day kindergarten. The story is about a young raccoon named Chester who is afraid to leave his mom and begin school. Knowing his fears, his mother kisses the palm of his hand and tells him that whenever he feels scared or lonely, he can press that hand to his heart and remember that her love is always with him.
I used this little tradition with my kids through the years. Before school, big events, or moments that felt overwhelming, we'd share a "kissing hand." As in the book, my children would also kiss the palm of my hand so that when I missed them, I could remember that they were carrying a piece of my love with them. It was a simple reminder that even when we couldn't see each other, we were never truly apart.
This upcoming school year feels different.
My daughter begins her senior year of high school. I can still picture her little backpack, oversized for her tiny frame, walking into school with excitement and just a hint of uncertainty. Somehow, in what feels like the blink of an eye, she's preparing for all the "last firsts" that come with senior year. While she's looking ahead to all that this year will bring, I'm finding myself looking back at all the moments that brought us here.
As much as I'd love to keep giving her a "kissing hand" before every new adventure, I realize that's no longer what she needs most. What I hope she carries with her isn't just the memory of my love, but the assurance of God's.
The message of The Kissing Hand is one we never outgrow. We all need reminders that we are loved, heard, valued, and never forgotten. Love doesn't disappear simply because someone isn't standing beside you.
That's the heart of our faith.
We cannot physically see Jesus, yet we trust that He walks beside us every day. Sometimes we lean on Him completely, while other times we forget how near He really is. But He never changes. He is steadfast, faithful, and present.
Isaiah 41:10 reminds us:
"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."
As my daughter begins her senior year in about one month, my prayer isn't that every door opens exactly as she hopes. My prayer is that wherever life leads her - college, work, new friendships, new challenges - she will always remember whose hand is truly holding hers. My love will travel with her no matter how far she travels, but God's presence will go before her, walk beside her, and remain with her long after she leaves home.
Whatever season you or your family are entering, remember that you are never walking into it alone. God goes with you. He holds your hand, strengthens your heart, and never lets go.
From her 1st day of kindergarten to her 1st day as a licensed CNA!!
