The courage to hug a stranger
While I was driving around town running errands a few weeks ago, I saw a young man walking around with a piece of a cardboard box. I could tell something was written on it in bold black marker. My guess was that this teenager was in desperate need of some cash. The light turned green and I turned left before I could read his message.
After I went to the grocery store, I spotted him again, but this time I only saw his back. He was still slowly wandering the streets of our small town.
Luckily, on my way back from the post office, I saw him once more. This time he was crossing the street, and I could see his determined face – as well as his sign – walking in my direction. He wasn’t asking for anything. Instead, he was giving something away: Free Hugs.
I must admit, I was quite surprised that a shy-looking teenager would actually be inviting people – and strangers at that – to hug him. Or rather, to be hugged BY him. My mind raced to figure out why he was doing this. A social experiment for high school? Was he a lonely kid? Just a goofy one?
Our eyes never met – in fact, his were mostly cast down, and mine drifted between him and the stop light. I didn’t find a place to park my car to receive his offering, though as I drove home I wished I had. Accepting random hugs from strangers isn’t the candy our parents warned us about, but it is most likely met with suspicion. Positive action to break down social constructs requires bravery, and I wished I had honored his with a BIG hug.
Today, I discovered something that you may already know: There is a worldwide FREE HUGS movement, which began in London, UK and has been around for a handful of years. Wow! (You can learn more about it at the Free Hugs Campaign website).
Somehow, it feels good to know this young, courageous guy isn’t alone. I hope he was able to meet his personal quota and consider it a day well spent. Bravo, Mr. Free Hugs Man! Hope to see you again and collect.
I’m going to look for that brave young man and give him a big hug!