Arm’s Length – To Hug or Not To Hug?

This morning’s writing prompt came from a thought I had about relationships, and just how close I’ll let anyone get to me.

I am not a hugger by nature; I keep most people at arm’s length unless I feel a hug is warranted. I wonder if that is a trait of introverts or is it something ingrained upon me from the life I’ve experienced?

That being said, have you ever noticed the differences in hugs?

There are some whose life mission is to bear hug anyone they meet. Hugs from them can hurt!

There are the quick ones, ones that take place after having recently met. Those are brief and usually a quick upper body touch and a step away, equally quick. Those are almost awkward since one or both participants didn’t know if a hug was warranted.

There are some who hold on just a little bit too long, causing an uncomfortableness that can only be described as kind of creepy. Those usually involve an icky placement of hands too.

And then there’s the hug I call the ‘uncomfortable friend’ hug/pat, the one where the pats are quick little taps on the upper back before the release and quick step back. I hate those ‘hugs’ because they lack sincerity. It’s almost like they are saying, “Oh, quit touching me already!”

There are the genuine ones, ones with loved ones. Those usually include whispers of affection in the ear or kisses to the forehead. I’ve found these come from closing the distance and time in relationships. This is my favorite kind for my littles, by the way. I wonder if they classify my hugs as genuine, creepy, or awkward?

Are you a hugger or do you prefer to keep your peopling at arm’s length too?