Starving for Affection

Or the Tao of The Holy Hug Bug

I don’t know about you, but there’s days I need a Hug Bug: A big affectionate lug whose love language is physical touch and doesn’t hesitate to act on an invitation to deliver a powerful embrace that seems to melt away all of my insecurities, loneliness and pride.

Sure, a Hug Bug is not appropriate for all occasions. Consent is also critical. A true Hug Bug is benevolent in the massive hugs that can be delivered, but never forces this power on anyone.

After 2 long pandemic years where we waved to friends and family from masked faces, Hug Bug is needed now more than ever. As a therapist, I speak to so many lonely, hugless individuals who are starving for what the Hug Bug can deliver. We need to be embraced as we are, and loved unconditionally.

The Hug Bug started as a sacred playful activity between my once toddler-daughter and myself. After the Tickle Monster delivered his fury on her, she would then be emraced by a deep-voiced being who delivered a massive hug, shouting “Huuuuuuug Buuuuuuuug!” This tradition carried over into the comic you see above.

While not always welcome or appropriate, there is a holy power in a cartoonishly huge hug. Personal touch has massive mental health benefits. It reminds us that we are social creatures, that we need one another, and that we are never truly alone.

Who and where is your Hug Bug?