Hi, my name is Debbie and I am a hugger. I have always been a hugger, not so much a hand shaker or a kiss on the cheek kinda girl, just a plain old hugger. My college roommate loves to remind me about our college days when we were out on the town I would get to a point where I couldn’t contain my deep admiration for the person I was talking with or near to and put my hands high up in the air to signal for a hug. Everyone knew if I put both hands up in the air, I was looking to give a hug. I have always hugged people with both arms up and around their neck, perhaps due to my height “impairment.” A number of individuals when returning the hug would lift me up off my feet. Sometimes, I would go around the table hugging; and at other times I just couldn’t stop myself and thought everyone needed a hug. Even if I didn’t know them, it just seemed wrong to leave anyone out.

I am still a hugger. Although I do not spend nights out on the town much anymore, I do still catch people off guard when I come in for a hug. I am definitely more aware of personal space nowadays and signal folks before I give them a hug. Rarely do I simply throw my hand up in the air to a stranger nowadays. Nevertheless, I truly believe the benefits of a hug outweighs the moment of discomfort a person may experience when caught off guard by a loving hug.

These days my hugs tend to be triggered by moments when I feel a person’s need to be soothed or healed as opposed to my need to show them a sign of appreciation. Lately, I find people are struggling more often and need a loving hug to balance and help bring them back to center. Sometimes it is hard to hug those people ~ they tend be in an irritable mood and are barking at me. These are the moments when I would rather run in the other direction than go in for a hug. But folks, nothing feels better when a grouchy person relaxes in your arms and returns the love.

Sometimes I do forget to hug. The other morning, Mathew woke up in such a foul mood; nothing was good or right in the world. It took so much energy for me to be calm and respond lovingly that I misplaced my hug for him when I said goodbye. Nevertheless, Mathew knew what he needed and came over to me with his arms out and wouldn’t let go. It was such a long sweet loving hug that filled me with such joy and helped both of us regain our center. Hugs are wonderful; everyone needs them on a regular basis. Try to never forget it.

Hugs = smiles