I Have Hands and They Speak to Me - By Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva

Written By: Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In the short story "I Have Hands and They Speak to Me," Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva eloquently explores the power of non-verbal communication. As a participant in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, Villanueva invites readers to delve into a narrative where hands become the primary medium of expression. The story intricately portrays themes of introspection and connection, emphasizing how gestures can convey emotions and intentions more profoundly than words.

About the Work

Villanueva's story gracefully captures the nuances of human interaction through the lens of tactile communication. The narrative's introspective tone invites readers to consider the significance of touch, gestures, and the silent language of hands in expressing emotions. With vivid imagery and a thoughtful approach, the story highlights the eloquence of hands in conveying trust, love, and compassion, offering a profound reflection on the depths of non-verbal expression.

I Have Hands and They Speak to Me

Original Submission by Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva

I Have Hands and They Speak to Me

Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva

My hands speak more than my mouth does. I don't mind, they're rather eloquent and much smarter than I am.

When my brain and my mouth refuse to utter a word to a stranger who reaches their hand out to me – as if to say "hello" – mine reaches back like it has a will of its own. Still timid and as shy as I am, but they reach out nonetheless – as if to say, "I cannot speak right now, but it's nice to meet you nonetheless." I grasp their hand firmly, and with it, my hands tell my brain and my body: "We can trust this person. See how firmly they hold me, too? They will not let us go so easily."

When I find myself alone in a corner at an event, alone and terrified (because who is not terrified of being alone in a place full of people?), I fiddle with my thumbs, rub my hands together for warmth, and I remember they are there. It is a comfort to know that I am there for myself, and my hands know it, too. They provide distraction and a relief, almost like they whisper to me: "Are we alright? The noise is deafening, both all the talking and our silence, but this is where we are meant to be. In the presence of others. Just hold on for a little more. I am here for you."

When I cannot tell my parents I love them - is it pride? or is it the fear that someday I will not be able to tell them anymore holding me back? - my hands reach out for them as we walk, intertwining our hands together. When we sit next to each other, my hands hold their own, tracing bulging veins and vessels, crevices on open palms. Is it my hands that say it? Or do I whisper to my parents "Thank you for all your hardwork. Thank you for taking care of me all these years. Know that I love you, I love you, I love you."

When my hands glide on a page, to write or to draw, they are quiet. There is nothing for them left to say as they draw and write all the words they've yet to speak. "Is this for us? Maybe," they paint and they jot down. "But who's to say it cannot be for the world as well? Art is for everyone. Maybe everyone is just you, maybe it is your family, maybe friends and strangers, too."

When a friend cries out to me and I do not know how to comfort them - does anyone truly know how to comfort a person? - my hands reach out and bring them into a hug. "Here is our heartbeat. Do you feel it? Do you hear it?" they say, rubbing circles on their back, "May you know right now it beats for you. May it beat together with yours."

"Thank you." I whisper.

"What for?" my hands whisper back.

"Everything. For the things I cannot say. And will not say."

"That is alright," they reply. "I already knew before you did."

My hands speak more than my mouth does. I don't mind - sometimes, most of the time, they say things better than I could have ever had.

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates the art of words in all its forms. This prestigious platform encourages writers and poets from around the world to share their unique voices and creative expressions. With submissions spanning diverse themes and styles, the competition fosters a global community of literary talent, providing a space for emerging and established writers alike to shine.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Jasmine Naomi D. Villanueva for sharing her compelling short story, "I Have Hands and They Speak to Me," with us. Her participation in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 enriches the tapestry of narratives that celebrate the power of communication and connection. Thank you, Jasmine, for your eloquent contribution.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.