The world is always changing, but lately there are a few subtle changes noted; some subliminal, some not. If you are an avid television viewer, than you’ve had to see some of these changes (subliminal advertisements). People are constantly being told to mask up and stay six feet apart…and we all know what that feels like, but since the beginning…if you were a ‘hugger’ most likely you’ve missed that human touch…and the feeling of being close; I know I have. I just hope that hugging doesn’t become a thing of the past.
Think about all of the current changes, and then think about the people that have been affected mentally by all of this; human behaviors are changing and that’s a tough one for anyone to deny. I never thought in a million years when I approached an old friend that I would have to ask “May I hug you?” and then wait for an answer, but…it is what it is. Think back to when the sexual harassment cases began to unfold; Matt Lauer (NBC Anchor) was first, then others in their fields began to follow suit (if you catch my drift), as well as some celebrity’s. What is the significance of this…well, it has to do with touching. Then a virus came along shortly after and the ‘No Touching’ went into full affect.
As Governor Cuomo said in one statement, “this is a cultural and generational shift.” I am not condoning any promiscuous behaviors here, but I strongly agree that there is a cultural shift that’s going on. In the past, I’ve hugged many of my former Bosses which were male; though I feel as if I was a trailblazer in the auto sales industry (1989), a totally male dominant industry at the time. I’ve been approached by male colleagues in some of my past jobs, but never did I ever contemplate suing someone for a hug I didn’t ask for; yes…when a female is young and inexperienced, it can feel like a threat I guess if a male touches her in a way she is not used to. Think about the 1950’s or 60’s, back then women were getting married at the age of 15, 16 and 17; it wasn’t unusual…not to mention they married men that were older; usually in their 20’s. Today, that is unacceptable; but it was a shift as the 80’s neared. So, what is the shift…it is a cultural shift, meaning that it derives from the experience which enables one to venture (to try) new things (or ways) that challenges the beliefs of those doing things the ‘right’ way. I highly recommend looking up ‘Cultural Change.’ It can shed light on all that is to come; which explains conflict at this time. Trust me…it’s interesting.
I use to see people hug a lot, and obviously it’s beginning to feel like something from the past; sort of like families when they got together on Sunday for service or dinners. As I approached this topic and researched, there were these words I found “touch starved” on a page. It’s a real thing and people deprived of physical touching can often experience negative feelings of emptiness and, or loneliness. We are told to take precautions by the CDC, so… I don’t know about you, but I Need hugs from all of my friends and family…so there’s no question here if you see me; hug me! (Yes, I’m vaccinated). Hugging can make one feel secure, loved, approachable…and so on; it’s all positive. Smile and hug someone you love today!
Make your week count.
