I had just finished my monthly Free Hugs session in Union Square, NYC, and was walking back to Harlem where I lived.
I save subway fare by walking as often as possible. Being a storyteller I don't have much money.
That's when I saw a woman sitting on the pavement. The shopping cart to her was side piled high with her possessions. Her shoes were worn to nearly nothing. I got out my Free Hugs sign and approached her.
I smiled gently and asked if she would like a hug. She looked at me with disbelief and asked, "You would hug me?"
I opened my arms and walked closer to her. "If you want a hug," I sad. "Absolutely." She reached out for the hug and then told me she had not been touched in almost 20 years.
I hugged her tighter. I apologized to her that I had no money to give her that day and she responded that the hug I'd just given was worth more than any amount of money.
Next time you see someone who is homeless, smile at them, say, "Hello," and if it feels right to your heart offer a hug or even the touch of your hand on their arm.
8241 Reads
- Posted by bubblehugfairy
- Dec 11, 2012
- Comments (49)
Readers Comments
denisemj wrote: A Hug is priceless! Thanks for taking the time to Care about the less fortunate people in the world.
princessliz wrote: A blessing to hear. That was so sweet of you.
MakeSomeoneSmile wrote: What a wonderful way to let them know you care. That was very kind, bravo! :)
bubblehugfair wrote: Thank you! HUGS to you!
bubblehugfairy wrote: I apologize for the typos in the story.
Yes, bluesky, love through hugs is indeed priceless. Huuuuuug
Yes, bluesky, love through hugs is indeed priceless. Huuuuuug
Mobobacas wrote: Honestly, i used to think that "free hugs" thing was a pretensious thing and the only ones who wanted the hugs were actually the extroverted, joyful ones. That story shows how significant they can actually be to someone. Thank you for sharing and for your service. Be well!
bubblehugfairy wrote: Mobobacas,
Thank you for your comment. I can honestly tell you that my experience sharing free hugs (all over the world) has included
Countless hugs from people who are introverted, in pain, shy and not the hugging type. I shared another story of a severely autistic boy who leaped into my arms, staring me right in the eyes and laughing. I never expected that one. And yes, the hugs can truly be significant. Hug to you.
Thank you for your comment. I can honestly tell you that my experience sharing free hugs (all over the world) has included
Countless hugs from people who are introverted, in pain, shy and not the hugging type. I shared another story of a severely autistic boy who leaped into my arms, staring me right in the eyes and laughing. I never expected that one. And yes, the hugs can truly be significant. Hug to you.
twinkle wrote: Your story of hugging that lady has really touched my heart. You showed strength, courage and kindness and that is truly magical.
(((hug)))
(((hug)))
bubblehugfairy wrote: Thank you twinkle. What inspired me more was that she showed courage in being vulnerable in allowing the hug to happen. Her life is filled with people ignoring her; to allow a connection to happen, that was what was truly magical; to me. Huuuuug <3 grateful
