Backstory
Just before sitting down to write some Consider This stories, I had been with someone who gave me a warm and hearty bear hug. It left me smiling, warm and fuzzy. I decided my first story would be about that kind of touching. So here it is.
Touching
Are you one of those people who touch other people? Some of us do it so naturally. Others would not think of making physical contact with someone they didn’t love or someone whose birth they had not spawned.
People love and need that human touch – holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back can create such warmth and nurturing.
The elderly in nursing homes respond so well to the visits of babies and young children they can hold. Some homes for the elderly have community pets. They find that even petting a responsive living being is therapeutic.
If you’re in the market for a new good deed, try reaching out and touching someone. Once the thought is in your head, you’ll be amazed at how many opportunities there are each day, to convey this feeling of affection or caring.
The physical touch actually produces a positive sensation in pressure receptors in the skin. The result can be gentle, comforting or quite loving.
Sometimes a response can be surprisingly emotional; especially when the touch or hug was badly needed.
In most cases, it’s OK to take a chance that your gentle touch will be welcome. The positive results are rewarding enough to overcome any occasional rejection.
P.S. Next best thing to touching, to convey empathy, is a compliment. Amazing how a minor tribute can change the direction of a bad day. What a pretty color on you . . . Cool hat . . . adorable dog . . . great weather . . . See how easy?
[Show #368]