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November 14th.
2007
HUGS
So did you catch the story last week about the middle school girl that
was suspended from school for hugging two friends? According to the
gregarious girl she was not “making out” just being – well friendly. The
school administration has a different interpretation.
You see public display of affection is “censored” in school. The reason
– it can create an uncomfortable environment for some, to say nothing of
the issue it causes in clogging up the hallways.
In my travels I have been blessed to experience a wide variety of
cultures. They each have their own norms and customs. The expression of
affection is certainly one facet. Shaking hands, hugging, kissing on the
cheek, the (as a good friend refers to it) fake air kiss, and holding
hands are all on the list.
The demonstrations of affections, or lack their of, are also prevalent
in faith communities. I have walked in to a church where I was
immediately hugged by an unknown greeter. Likewise, I have been extended
a hand to be held by a stranger during the Lord’s Prayer. On the other
hand, (so to speak) I have been in churches where during the exchange of
the Peace not one person even greeted me.
I am acutely aware that folks come from different places on their level
of comfort with outwardly expressing affection. I am particularly
sensitive to the reality that some who are uncomfortable are so because
of an experience or experiences of unwanted and inappropriate physical
contact by another.
The one thing I am most certain about in life is everybody needs to feel
loved. The primary way love is expressed is through a variety of forms
of physical contact. With complete respect for folks’ own personal
comfort levels, my concern is as outward expressions of affection are
“censored”, will we be free to share the greatest gift God has given us,
to love and to be loved?
Blessings,
The Rev. Brian N. Prior, Rector
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