2 min. read
*This post first appeared September 18, 2007 // At that time, we had just one child and one on the way ... Seems so long ago ...
A week ago, on a breezy Monday night, my family and I joined some friends outside a store to give away something: free hugs. It was part of International Free Hug Day.
[featured-image single_newwindow=”false”]
I floated out the idea to some people to see who (if anyone) was interested. Actually found a person who loved the idea, headed it up, invited others, etc.
I must confess … I was way out of my comfort zone. I signed up to make a sign, but not to be a hugger. I made a big sign that required both arms to hold it up. I figured that way I wouldn’t be hugging anyone.
Well, as the hour passed by, I found myself hugging people. They didn’t care that I was holding a big sign … they were hugging me!
I learned a few things that night:
1. People expect someone outside a store holding a sign to ask them for something … The idea of giving something away is unexpected.
2. There are people in the world who need healthy, appropriate human touch.
3. The people who seem most ready and most needy for hugs are children. This event happened during the same week that we welcomed a new baby girl into our family. It makes me want to be available for children. We have no idea what home situations they are in. Children need hugs … and smiles, kind words, nice surprises.
When have you sacrificed your comfort zone? What did you experience?