Hugs

And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them. Mark 10:16

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

I heard a doctor prescribe at least 4 hugs a day for a cancer patient. Different studies have shown that we need 8 hugs a day for survival. Embracing creates energy for both parties. I read an article that was originally printed in Goodnet; that said, “Hugging is a crucial part of human development.”

I have read that a touch (a handshake, a tap on the shoulder, etc.) can be healthy too; but I doubt it has the same effect as a hug.

I can tell you when my nieces and nephews give me a hug it fills my heart and mind with joy. It sometimes can mean the difference between a negative or positive outlook on the day.  It reminds me of the show, Everyone Loves Raymond, where the grandfather Frank sniffs the twins heads and explains that he's "sucking in that youth". Is it really youth or is it the love that fills his heart?

Haven’t you ever received a hug when you were so stressed, and then felt the release of the stress and tension? There are so many healing factors that are wrapped up in a hug.

Seeing someone in pain or hurt; not being able to hug them with the current situation seems so harsh and uncaring.

What can we do but express our feelings maybe better than we ever have in the past to replace that embrace? Express the love in our eyes that show we are listening and care.

Prayer: Pray to the Father for His loving embrace to extend not only to those we meet, but those that are hurting and not receiving that hugs that sustain survival. Pray for guidance in how we can comfort those we meet.

Lori Hood