Everyone is missing hugs these days. Virtual hugs just aren’t the same. The human touch of a hug is a powerful thing that knows no boundaries. In any language, a hug truly touches the soul.

When you have no words, a hug says it all without speaking. For those without a poetic license, it says “I love you.” Instead of a clumsy apology, a hug offers a path to forgiveness. A hug shows compassion, care and kindness in times of sorrow. A farewell hug is a gift that keeps on giving in the memory of both the giver and the receiver until you meet again.

The benefits of hugs go beyond spreading joy. Scientists say they can boost your mental and physical health. Hugs have been proven to lower stress, boost immunity and increase self-esteem. Hugging promotes trust, reduces depression and in some cases, may be critical for survival. Although some adults might not be big huggers, studies show that babies and animals who are deprived of physical touch may become so depressed they stop eating.

This week I’ve been thinking about all of the people who are missing hugs because of the pandemic. It makes me sad. I wonder how they are coping without them. Especially those who live alone, like the elderly in nursing homes. I’m reminded of my grandparents and am grateful that they are together in heaven, free to hug anyone. I imagine them hovering over me, guiding me and giving me heavenly hugs. I think the idea of a heavenly hug is very comforting.

Until it’s safe for more people to give and receive hugs, I have been looking for ways to reach out to those who live alone. While we cannot replace the human touch of hugs, there are other things we can do. Even the smallest gesture can make a difference. I’ve been sending hand written cards and letters, even old postcards, which have been much appreciated by family and friends. Even a brief text or phone call with an encouraging message can brighten someone’s day. In my community, there have been programs I’ve been able to participate in that allow you to send flowers anonymously to nursing homes. They are distributed to the residents who are without family or friends and in the greatest need of cheering up.

People are feeling lonely. For some, virtual hugs are the only safe option. If they can recall a special friend or relative who might be giving them a heavenly hug, it might spark joy and bring a much needed smile their way. When I sent a virtual guardian angel out to family and friends last month, the response was overwhelming. Some thought of it as divine intervention. So, I decided to create a virtual angel campaign to keep it going this month. Each week, we’ve released a different angel with a special message of hope, love and encouragement.

First, we launched the angel of joy, with an invitation to join us on a journey of inspiration through stories here at Zabelicious Life. Then, we honored Black History Month and Rosa Parks on her birthday, by sharing one of her quotes, “Memories of our lives, works and deeds will continue in others.” That prompted me to reflect on my grandparents philanthropy and ways I could honor their life by continuing their works.

This week, we sent angels sharing heavenly hugs soaring through cyberspace in honor of my grandpa’s birthday. He would have turned 107 this week and although he and my grandma are both gone, they’ll never be forgotten. Neither will the good deeds they did, which live on in others. Or, the hugs from Grandma and Grandpa. They were the best. Every hug they gave me, really did touch my soul. It’s a blessing to know they have each other for eternity with an endless supply of hugs. I hope you have some heavenly hugs coming your way today.

Whose soul will you touch today with a virtual hug? Journal It!

How are you coping without being able to hug those you love? Journal It!

What are some ways you can make a difference through good deeds that will continue in others? Journal It!

Get Involved

Adopt-A-Grandparent

Spread love and positivity to our most vulnerable population, our elderly. A Minneapolis woman recognized a need for seniors and launched the Adopt-A-Grandparent program. Hillary Kline lost her grandparents at a young age and has always longed for that sort of relationship. She decided there may be others who also could benefit from connecting with our seniors and filling that void of loneliness in the darkness of the pandemic. So she created the Adopt-A-Grandparent Program to brighten up the lives of senior citizens in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Kline is originally from Wisconsin, so she wanted to include both states in her outreach.

The response over the past few weeks has been overwhelming, with over 1,000 cards and letters already sent to nursing homes and at least a few pen pals have been matched. Although, that is not a requirement.

It’s easy to get involved. Simply write a note on a card or letter with a kind message that could be shared with anyone. Artwork from children or adults is especially encouraged. Hillary is collecting all cards and letters to personally deliver to nursing homes in the first round of contact. If you are interested in a pen pal relationship with a senior, indicate that in a separate message. You will be responsible for mailing your own letters after that. Send your correspondence to: Hillary Kline, PO Box 28244, Crystal, MN 55428.

For further questions, contact Hillary directly via email. Graphics by artist Emmi Brytowski.