They reach out to the world
 They carry our fortune
 Written firmly into their palm
 They may tremble and shiver
 When we need it the least
 But as well they may be all safe and calm

 They give and take
 They tease and taunt
 They salute or wave goodbye

 They caress a lover
 Pull the trigger of a gun
 Sign a treaty that seals the peace
 They build cars and houses
 And at times they save a life
 Or go spreading the disease

 They give and take
 They tease and taunt
 They salute or wave goodbye
 They push and shove
 They clutch and cling
 Or hold somebody tight

 It's all in those hands
 They can do so much good
 Can be so destructive
 Hands shape the world
 Hands break it down

 They may clench into fists
 Or as well be opened wide
 Invite you or push you back
 They may pin the words down
 Of the book that will change your life
 Or close around a victim's neck

 They give and take
 They tease and taunt
 They salute or wave goodbye
 They push and shove
 They clutch and cling
 Or hold somebody tight

 It's all in those hands
 They can do so much good
 Can be so destructive
 Hands shape the world
 Hands break it down
 Hands build it up again