I Won’t Let Go First
By Heather Ledeboer | Category: Family Focus, The Journey of Motherhood
A few years ago I heard a something that changed the future of my hugging habits. Someone said, “I have decided that anytime I give someone a hug, I will not be the first to let go. This simple act has caused me to give hugs that have been so much longer and more meaningful to my friends and family.”
I decided to put her idea into practice and when I hug my children I patiently wait until they are ready to let go before I do. Days that are rushed make it more difficult to apply this rule. Although the difference between a short and long hug can be a matter of seconds or minutes the overall effect, I believe, is compounded to a much greater degree. Try it!
For an added incentive, I invite you to visit this YouTube video showing what happened when “free hugs” were offered. Watching it brought tears to my eyes. It reminded me that it comes down to it, don’t we all have the same desire for love regardless of who we are, where we live or what we have been through?
Hmmmm, just thinking about this makes me want to go hug someone. . .
Hi Heather:
I feel bad I haven’t commented on this blog and am surprised no one else has made a post yet…I TOTALLY agree with you…I do the exact same thing..a years ago, when we were actively doing professional photography another photographer mentioned about “who would let go first”…in a hug…and from that point on…I always try to wait and let the OTHER person let go first…Kids are more “open” to this…some adults…get bothered by it…have you noticed that…????…Just my observation….And yes, when you get right down to it…all we want is to be LOVED and ACCEPTED.. that is the nature of mankind !! And “yes” I LOVE these HUG VIDEOS…every time I view one…it stirs my heart and makes me want to STOP all that I am doing and go out and make a sign…HMMMMM…maybe I”ll do that soon…Do you know the story line behind the VERY FIRST person that started this…???… Just curious…I also LOVE your photo…It is great !!! Thanks for sharing….I thoroughly enjoyed it !!! Rosemary
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Thanks Rosemary:) No I don’t know the story behind the first Hug campaign but it is likely a good one!
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What a great idea. We’re big huggers in our family, Dh’s not so much. I’ll see how this goes over!
Love what you stand for.
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I love love love this video! It was so cute and so sweet to see the true love and warmth people have when it comes to allowing thier guard to come down and accept a friendly hug, especially children.
Thanks for sharing that with us.
Love your blog and site
E.B
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Good thoughts – especially with your kids and rushed days! Thanks for the reminder.
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Heather – what a great video! I love being conscience of not letting go. I’ve caught myself lately thinking don’t let this moment pass you by – now I will not let go! Thanks for sharing – hope you are doing alright. Big hugs to you
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Thanks so much for this entry, Heather. I am going to start this tomorrow! Great reminder to take in those special moments and not rush through them!
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sweet message and even SWEETER picture <3
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I do the same thing with my kids!! Sometimes my 5 yr. old is like a hug? UGH! But I make him come over and give me a nice long hug and I don’t ever want to let go!!! My baby girl is a HUGE hugger!!! I LOVE it and Brody will hug me ANYTIME I ask!!!
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I actually remember the first post about this, and have adopted it ever since (and even told friends about it!). I love the idea, thanks for sharing it with us:-)
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