Why I Don’t Hug Everyone: A Personal Journey Into Energy and Authenticity

Let’s talk about hugging.

To hug or not to hug, that is the question. In a world where hugging has become the social equivalent of a high-five, I find myself frequently opting out of this universally embraced (pun intended) gesture. Some might call me a hug-skeptic; others might see me as an emotional minimalist. Here’s why I carefully curate my hugs and what it reveals about my philosophy on human connection.

The “Hug Smiling” Conundrum

Let’s face it: not everyone who flashes a smile has your best interests at heart. You know the type—smiling in your face while plotting your downfall behind the scenes. I’ve learned that a hug can be more revealing than a dozen conversations. It’s like a human lie detector test; the warm embrace can expose hidden agendas faster than you can say “awkward squeeze.”

When I hug, I tap into an unspoken language that reveals the true essence of a person. I can discern intentions, energy, and even underlying tensions. It’s a spiritual diagnostic tool that helps me navigate relationships with a bit more finesse. So, while hugging might seem like a mere social nicety to many, for me, it’s a window into the soul—or, at least, a way to avoid getting entangled in someone’s hidden drama.

The Energy Exchange Dilemma

Ever had a hug that left you feeling like you’d just been hit by a tidal wave of someone else’s issues? Yeah, me too. Hugs are not just physical interactions; they’re emotional and energetic exchanges. And sometimes, the energy we absorb from others can be less than delightful. It's like taking a ride on a roller coaster you didn’t sign up for—unexpected and often overwhelming.

In my experience, not all hugs are created equal. Some are like being wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket, while others feel like you’ve been enveloped by a human-sized ice pack. So, while the benefits of hugging, such as increased oxytocin and reduced stress, are well-documented, I’ve learned to balance those benefits against the risk of emotional contamination.

Side Bar Chat. Oxytocin is a hormone in your body that helps you feel connected to others. It’s often called the "love hormone" because it's released when you hug, bond with someone, or experience positive social interactions. It helps build trust and deepens relationships. So, every time you feel warm and fuzzy with someone, that’s oxytocin at work!

Disrupting the Hug Status Quo

I’m a hug disruptor - yeah I like that now lol, a rebel in the world of affectionate embraces. If you’re expecting a hug from me and you’re met with a polite handshake or a friendly wave, don’t take it personally. It’s not you; it’s my strategic approach to maintaining emotional equilibrium. I’ve discovered that boundaries can be as nurturing as any physical touch, and sometimes, a well-placed nod or smile is just as effective in fostering genuine connection.

In a world where hugs are as common as selfies, I choose to be intentional about my interactions. I don’t hug everyone, and that’s okay. I’ve learned that authenticity doesn’t always come wrapped in a warm embrace. Sometimes, it’s in the careful consideration of who I allow into my personal space—and, more importantly, who I don’t.

The Divine Hug Experience

However, my approach to hugging isn’t without its exceptions. I’ve met strangers at events who offered a hug that completely shifted my mood. It felt like hugging God himself. This transformative experience reminds me of the hugs from my grandmother Geraldine (paternal grandmother). When we embraced, it was as though her spirit wrapped around me, offering a divine connection that felt sent directly from the heavens. Such hugs have been my benchmark, the rare moments when I truly felt like I was receiving a gift from the universe. They come when I need them most, restoring my faith in the power of a genuine embrace.

The Wisdom of the Scriptures

To put it in a biblical context - because I love God and often like to intercept my own way of thinking about scripture - , Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” This verse resonates with my approach to hugging. By being selective about whom I embrace, I’m guarding my heart and ensuring that the energy I absorb aligns with my values, well-being, and anointed assignments.

In Conclusion

In my journey of human connection, I often reflect on the essence of the poem The House by the Side of the Road. Much like the house in the poem, which stands as a welcoming presence regardless of the traveler’s background, I aim to engage with others while maintaining my own boundaries. While some might label me as a hug hermit or cuddle critic, my perspective is deeply rooted in an understanding of human energy and interaction. I recognize and value the psychological benefits of hugs, yet I’m cautious not to absorb the emotional baggage that often accompanies them.

Navigating human connections requires a balance of humor, wisdom, and a touch of sarcasm—qualities I serve up fresh daily. The house by the side of the road welcomes all but also maintains its own sense of self, and similarly, I strive to connect meaningfully with others while preserving my own space and energy.

Embrace the world as you see fit, and remember, sometimes a smile and a nod are all the connection you need—without the risk of a potentially disastrous hug.