Stories of Kindness from Around the World

A Rare Hug


--by cf, posted Jan 23, 2013

I was on my way to an appointment, and saw the beggar standing on his corner as usual.I didn't have any money and he was talking to somebody else anyway, so I passed him by.
 
On my way back from the appointment I passed him on his corner again. This time he asked me for money. I told him, "Sorry, I don't have any coins on me."
 
He replied, "I wouldn't mind the bills!" And he laughed a little, saying he was just making fun. 
 
I laughed too and reached out to rub his shoulder and arm. Then I turned to be on my way, busy with my thoughts.
 
But he called something after me. I stopped when I realised he had said, "That felt really good ... that you touched me. It happens so seldom!"
 
I turned, ran to him, and gave him a big hug, which made both of us smile like idiots.
 
He told me it felt so good. "I don't have a heart of stone," he said, "but what with people calling me names and stuff..." 
 
To cut him off, I gave him another hug - hard. He smiled again. Me too!
 
It sure made my day. And I left with a tear in my eye.

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Readers Comments

Brownowlster wrote: Sharing compassion feels so wonderful! : d
slinkycat wrote: Thank you! I'm sure that hug will last longer than any money you could give. :)
jsmc10 wrote: It really is amazing at what a simple thing can do for someone, thank you for giving this beggar hope :)
gkrb wrote: What a great gesture! God bless you.
hennie wrote: A hug is a special kind of kindness. Thanks for sharing ;)
ceasons wrote: You gave him a greater gift than your pocket change could have. Bless you
randomact wrote: Nice of you, we are all human beings no matter what cloak we wear..... So kind to keep an open mind
heartwarmer wrote: Amazing what a hug can do! It was as nice a gift as any money you might have given!
Bluebell wrote: Dear cf that hug was priceless, no coins, no bills can pay the gift you gave him. Endless Blessings to both you, Bluebell

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