A Grain of Sand

by Oliver Wendell Holmes — a poem card from Justes Mots

A grain of sand teaches the speaker that divine care extends even to the smallest, most insignificant things, offering reassurance during moments of spiritual doubt. Through the metaphor of a humble object gaining insight into cosmic order, Holmes conveys that humans—though tiny against the universe—are precious and eternally held by God's hands. The poem provides comfort for those wrestling with questions of worth and purpose.

Do you see this grain of sand
Lying loosely in my hand?
Do you know to me it brought
Just a simple loving thought?
When one gazes night by night
On the glorious stars of light,
Oh how little seems the span
Measured round the life of man.…

Themes: sympathy · grief · encouragement · reflection