We Are All Connected

Day 4:  6 Mindful Hugs

Today I went on an adventure.  I drove 2.5 hours to attend a devotional service for Memorial Day.  I went by myself.  I drove down beautiful country roads and passed many historic battlefields.  As I stopped at a few historic sites, I thought about what it meant to really be grateful for all those who have served our country and given the ultimate sacrifice.  I spent much of the day in silence to honor those who have fallen and those who continue to serve and protect our freedoms.

I spent most of the morning driving, and I arrived just in time for the service to begin.  I was amazed that there were so many diverse backgrounds in attendance.  Today I prayed with people from Germany, Uruguay, Indonesia, the Philippines, Iran, and Guyana.  It was beautiful.  I hugged 6 people there.

On my long drive home, I thought about this Hugging Meditation project and how it fits in with everything else.  I believe that we are all of one race, the Human race.  We are all connected.  I believe that through this Hugging Meditation, I am honoring that connection.  I can't help but wonder if everyone gave a hug every day if there would be any conflict in the world.  

Four days into this experiment and I am already feeling happier.  I am more energetic and more productive.  I am honoring the space when I want to be alone and more introspective, and at the same time I am pushing myself to get out and be more interactive.  I believe that whether or not I make it to 500 hugs over these 30 days, I will be forever changed by this experience.