What A Hug Taken In Draws Out

So I’ve become quite the hugger at the bus yard, especially in the mornings. I like to come in (at 6:00am-ish) and hug anyone and everyone who gets in my way. These are usually women who are about my age or older. I’ve got some regulars who’ve come to expect a morning hug: Grama, Kay, and Cene (pronounced seen). Then there is Cynthia and Carol who are regularly in the way. And oh….how could I forget, it all started with Lisa, the morning dispatcher and person who hands out our paychecks on Tuesday m0rnings.

There are some men who will also gladly receive a hug, but they aren’t going to go out of their way to get it or give an expectant look when I come around. Others are ambushed and basically tolerate it.

Another person who enjoys a good hug is Margarette. The first time I gave her a hug, which was just last week, she said, “Oh, I needed that.” That put her on my list of regulars. So yesterday morning she was sitting with some of the regulars when I was giving out the morning hugs. When I came to her, I hugged her and held on a bit longer. I said to her, “Take it in. You got to take a good hug in.” When I let go she said, “I don’t get many of those anymore since my husband past away.” I told her I had plenty of hugs and she could have one anytime she wanted, and she said, “I just miss being able to reach out and touch him and tell him I love him.” One good, long hug and look what comes tumbling out.

Ah Margarette, I was oblivious to your pain and loss. But now, by the grace of God, I get to bring some needed warmth and joy in your life. And that brings warmth and joy into my life. Hug on.

Pencils = 42