AFFIRMING TOUCH

My older sister shared the following story with me last week. Her son was going through a hard time and was sitting by himself in church. The pastor of the church was aware of his circumstances and as he walked past, he touched the young man on the shoulder and walked on. This millisecond touch meant so much to him. He needed someone to reassure him, to show some form of compassion and empathy. No words were needed.
I also remember visiting the Sewa Ashram in Delhi, India where our daughter Ruth and her husband Jake had been working the previous year. I met the leader of the ashram at the front gates. I thanked Keshav for looking after them and he thanked me for ‘giving my daughter and son in law to them’ so that they could work with the ‘untouchables’ and help restore them to good health. We hugged each other and for the first time in my life I couldn’t let go and neither could he. We both started to cry. Tears rolled down our faces as our shared humanity was expressed. 
At Te Uku School where I work part time, a colleague of mine recently noticed that I was visibly upset with some unsettling family news. She came over to me and gave me a hug. I needed that. We all need hugs and touches like the ones described above.

POINTS TO PONDER
If possible, be aware of where people are at in their lives. If a form of touch is appropriate, then follow your heart. This point of contact can mean everything to someone who is hurt by the circumstances of life. 
Affirming, safe touch can help to restore someone’s value as it releases kindness in you and restoration and encouragement in them. Reaching out to people in this way is an action of unconditional love. 

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