Matterofprayer: A Year of Everyday Prayers – Thursday, March 18, 2015
Day #26 – Conference? Grief? Hugs!
Today was the third day for my conference. Substance abuse. I need continuing education hours, and this week is the annual time for those in my certification group to have their conference. Between yesterday and today, I racked up the hours on grief, loss, trauma, and the subsequent effects those emotions have on substance abusers. On top of that, I attended an interfaith panel discussion at another location, tonight. On—end of life issues.
Yes, cheery subjects, one and all. (Not really.)
However—these are very real subjects, and someone needs to be familiar with them, if not knowledgeable about them. I’ve worked as a chaplain for most of the last ten years, and had special training in grief, loss, and trauma (just to name several areas). So, even though I am accustomed to such serious topics, I really could use today’s suggestion from #40acts!
Giving people hugs just because seems to me to be a great thing to do! It is true that I am somewhat hesitant to hug people because of my chaplain training. (It just isn’t the thing to do!) I try to understand the boundaries between people, and I try to be as kind, courteous and listening as possible. But, still—hugging people releases all sorts of endorphins. My good friend Dan and I did exactly that. And, a great big bear hug, too!
As long as the person I hug gives permission, and as long as I am comfortable with it, super! It’s good for me, it’s good for the person I hug. Now, if you are hesitant to do this, you can always try sending virtual hugs—just as the post suggests. And—get more adventurous, if you can!
Remember, people all over can use hugs. Or cheery hellos. Whether at home, at work, in school or in the hospital, hugs can be healing! Therapeutic! Helpful and nurturing! I pray that you might be encouraged to hug. Each and every day.
Like what you read? Disagree? Share your thoughts with your loved ones and continue the conversation.
(Check out #40acts; doing Lent generously at www.40acts.org.uk )
Why not visit my sister blogs, “the best of” A Year of Being Kind. @chaplaineliza And read #40acts sermons from Pastor, Preacher Pray-er .
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