Hugs!

On yesterday's edition of the BBC Radio 4 programme Today, was an interesting item on the benefit to children's education of the teacher's attitude of caring love. My ears pricked up when it was trailed as "Pupils need hugs from teachers" - or words to that effect. I certainly had no problems with an appropriate hug for a pupil of either gender, and those who meet me even now, often expect a hug!

I was also speaking of hugs with a dear friend whose paternal grandmother had just died. She agreed that her dad would appreciate a hug - it can often say much more than words!

Many years ago, someone gave me a little poem entitled "I like hugs". I hope that you enjoy it!

It's wondrous what a hug can do; a hug can cheer you when you're blue.
A hug can say, "I love you so!" ... or "I hate to see you go!"
A hug is "Welcome back, again!" and "Great to see you!" or "Where've you been?"
A hug can soothe a small child's pain, and bring a rainbow after rain.

The hug! There's just no doubt about it - we scarcely could survive without it!
A hug delights, and warms, and charms: it must be why God gave us arms!
Hugs are great for fathers and mothers; sweet for sisters (even for brothers!);
And chances are, some favourite aunts love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them; puppies love them; heads of state are not above them.
A hug can break the language barrier; and make the dullest day seem merrier.
No need to fret about the store of 'em - the more you give, the more you have of 'em.
So, stretch those arms without delay, and give someone a hug today!