Pandemic Hugs

My day was made, running into this fabulous human being. Yesterday in the late afternoon, I was taking care of errands. As I was leaving one of the stores, I heard someone enthusiastically call my name. I looked towards the parking lot and there she was, my friend, Linda.

As always, with us it’s instantaneous smiles, conversation, and laughter. Linda and I worked together at Concerted Care Group. I would often stop by her office in the early morning to briefly chat. We were never at a loss for words, talking about anything and everything, especially current events. Like me, she has opinions and doesn’t shy from sharing (I love that about her).

Our brief meeting had me thinking about CCG and all of the wonderful people I met. We were a family. All of my work experiences, for the most part, have been rewarding, but with CCG – this encounter was unique. The kindness and love extended to me was overwhelming. We all genuinely cared about each other, and still do.

As much as we wanted the conversation to continue, talking in a parking lot on a hot summer day was not the same as a cool office. Before parting ways, it was innate that we hug because that’s what happy, caring people do.

I know some will look at this photo and judge, questioning our decision to hug, not to mention take a selfie together in a pandemic world. Depending on the person, it’s instinctive to hug. I know it is for me.  (Hi! My name is Paul Kilmon, and I am a hugger.)

We took it upon ourselves to evaluate the situation, knowing we both have been following the rules of pandemic life. With masks on and no skin-to-skin contact, the deed was done. That hug was the closest thing to normal.

Hugging, one of the most instinctive expressions of comfort, joy, and affection, is rare in a pandemic world. For some, even thinking about it is considered obscene, even when we’re not in a health crisis. Understandably, physical expression remains "a do at your own risk" activity. I’ve been told a single event is probably low risk, but not zero risk (I guess I’ve been playing the odds, on RARE occasions).

I don’t know what is right for you, but I do preach social distancing and mask wearing. I care about doing the right thing, as do all of my friends. I’ll think twice before hugging again, but will make no promises because sometimes I just need a hug, and you probably do, too, dear reader. (I know the world needs one desperately. VOTE!)

Be safe, my friends. Try your best to thrive in an unyielding world. – paerki