Are you a hugging or a hands off kind of person? Did you know that giving hugs and receiving them is good for you? It's true--studies have proven that when we include hugs in our life we feel better and we are actually healthier A hug can make all the difference.
Last week I was having a bad day. The world felt dark and unfriendly, and I couldn't seem to pull myself out of the pit I'd stumbled into. To make matters worse, when I looked out the back window my family was building a bonfire. I love bonfires--constructing them, roasting hotdogs over them and sitting around them beneath the stars. But on that day I was stuck inside. It was one of those my body has a toothache days. I'd spent most of the afternoon on the sofa, medicated and with my heating pad and a blanket. I was not happy.
God sent someone to the rescue--my granddaughter, Olivia. She bounced in, wearing a bright smile, her eyes alight with mischief. She sat on the sofa beside me and just grinned. Finally she got around to why she was there. She wanted to know if I could drive to the store and buy marshmallows, chocolate bars and graham crackers. S'mores were on her mind. I was medicated and in no condition to drive so I had to tell her I couldn't go.
I pouted, but Olivia didn't. Her eyes were full of love and she said, "That's okay, grandma." And then she gave me one of her Livvy hugs that brighten so many of my days. We held each other tight and before I knew it the gloomies were gone. The magical powers of a hug had worked once again.
My advice is don't despair . . . hug someone. It can make all the difference.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
awwwwww, so very special. I do ache for those who cannot receive nor give hugs. At times, I've been one of those, sigh...
ReplyDeleteHello Bonnie, what a beautiful little girl! and her eyes are so blue. I have been struggling with depression. Its horrible not to feel normal. I hope your toothache is better. Any problem in the heart seems ten times worse than elsewhere. love and blessings sent. xxx
ReplyDeletePatti, when my sister writes "sigh" in one of her posts she means, "I need prayer". I've taken up the habit as well. I don't know if you're feeling that way, but I'm praying for you anyway.
ReplyDeleteHugs.
Crystal Mary, how nice to hear from you. I'm sorry you're struggling with depression. It's such a painful place to be and so hard to climb out of.
ReplyDeleteI used to get depressed for maybe a day and then that would be it, but as the years go by and life dishes out sorrows the fight for joy has become more difficult. I believe the enemy is in the business of stealing joy. Hang onto the Lord. He offers deep and lasting joy.
I will pray for you. The Lord sees you. He can feel the ache of your heart. Snuggle up close to Him and feel the strength of His arms as he enfolds you in them.
All my love.