I Give Hugs

Author : Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD
The Gift of Giving, Oprah's show theme for October 30, 2006 featured Juan Mann's free hug campaign, which started two years ago when Juan went back to his hometown in Australia to find that his friends and family had moved away. "I was the only person I knew in my own hometown," he says. "So I wanted to get out there and do something that spread a little bit of cheer and cheered me up, and this was the first thing that really came to mind."The first time he stood in public with his "Free Hugs" sign, Juan says it took an agonizing 15 minutes to receive his first hug. "This one lady came up and gave me a hug and it was really, really worth it," Juan says. From that first hug a campaign was born! Thanks to a video on the website YouTube, Juan's movement is spreading worldwide—he is even organizing a global hug day!"So do people think you're crazy?" Oprah asked. "All the time," Juan said. "People tend to be a bit wary of strange man in a velvet coat walking around with a giant sign."Giving free hugs to strangers was not originated by Juan Mann. It was originated in 1977 by Eleanor Hill, when she founded a volunteer-based nonprofit organization, called Resonance House to offer women support services including free listening sessions, on-going support groups and educational workshops. Since its simple beginnings, Resonance House has evolved into a multi-faceted organization with far-reaching programs that has served more than 150,000 men, women and children.Ms. Hill initiated a Hug Club program to instill the concept of the spirit of giving to staff and volunteers. The Hug Club included a button to wear on one's lapel. In the center in large print is: I Give Hugs. Around the parameter is "Hug Club – You need twelve Hugs a Day for Health." As a volunteer for Resonance House, I proudly wear my 'I Give Hugs' button on my suit jacket or coat—depending on the season.As I travel for my work, there are many delightful experiences and opportunities to give people hugs. One incident I cherish the most occurred when I stopped at the Circle K near my home where I frequently purchase gas. The gas pumps didn't have the automatic credit card payment option at that time, so I needed to go inside to pay. One day the cashier noticed the "I Give Hugs" button and asked, "Do you really give hugs?" "Yes, I do" I said, as I opened my arms wide and leaned over the counter—he leaned forward and received his hug. A few weeks later I stopped to get gas and although it was a different cashier, he asked for a hug. Of course, I gave him a hug. The next time I came in, as I paid, the cashier said, "Oh, You are the lady, who gives hugs." The cashiers had obviously talked about being hugged by a lady who comes in to purchase gas. As I reached over the counter and embraced him, I heard a male voice behind me say, "I want a hug too." I turned around to see a very dirty and noticeably smelly disheveled man who looked as if he was homeless, standing with a plaintiff look on his face. I opened my arms wide and drew him toward me, giving him a 'bear hug.' As he walked up to the counter to pay for his items, I saw him straightening his coat collar and smoothing the lapels. My heart rejoiced, knowing that I had given a gift, money can't buy, and had brightened his life beyond mere words.Another Hug Club was founded in 1989, The Hugs for Health Foundation to increase awareness and enhance the quality of life for the elderly in senior and long-term care facilities through hugs, fellowship and volunteer support. There might be other 'Hug Clubs' I am not familiar with.The world would be totally different if we all adopted the habit of giving free hugs to strangers. And yes, many people are a bit wary of a woman wearing a, "I Give Hugs," button and then giving a hug without hesitation, no matter the person. However, my experiences of 'suspicion' or 'negativity' are miniscule compared to the overwhelming enthusiastic acceptance of a stranger giving a hug. I encourage everyone to consider giving free hugs to strangers. You can have a, "I Give Hugs," button made or you can carry a sign. The world can be changed one person at a time.Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, author, international speaker and inspirational leader specializes in: Mind, Body, Spirit healing and Physical/Sexual Abuse Prevention and Recovery. Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Personal/Professional Growth and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.drdorothy.net
Keyword : free hugs, Juan Mann, campaign, Oprah, self-esteem, confidence, anxiety, panic, worry, anger, TMJ