Keep The Fire Burning : Why A Hug, A Handshake & Friends Matter Now More Than Ever

Most every creature in nature desires, even craves, companionship. Humans are no different. Yes, we can be introverts or extroverts, but eventually we all enjoy the company of a mate, or close friends gathered around a bonfire. For centuries a handshake has been a welcome to someone new. Or sealing a deal after a long negotiation. Or a way to say let’s forgive and move on. That’s being taken away from you now in front of your very eyes. Why? Because we are allowing it to happen.

Look. I’m not suggesting we go lick the doorknobs on public restrooms at fast food restaurants. But I’m also not suggesting we cower in the corner in fear and toss away everything that makes us human. Creatures of this very earth. Do you think germs just magically started with coronavirues? Of course not. As long as mankind has been on this earth, some germ, some virus, has always been on the prowl to find victims. That was the case before CV-19 and will be the case long after CV-19 has faded and some other crisis takes the headlines.

I’m not debating the existence of a virus or its origin. I am debating the fact we are losing the very humanity we say we are all practicing by distancing. Ratting out neighbors and friends. It’s one of the most inhumane things being done right now. Many people that profess themselves to be good Christians are doing exactly opposite of what Jesus was known for. Washing the feet of others, taking care of the sick and diseased.  Instead we are now running and hiding, leaving a loved one to die alone in a nursing home or hospital. Some think this is the end of times. It is not.

I’m a hugger. Anyone that knows me knows that. These days it’s become such an anomaly that when two friends that are okay with it cross paths it’s another entire celebration of it’s own. High five!

Do you not see what those in power are doing to us as a society? 6 foot distancing. Masks. Don’t get near anyone. Don’t assemble. Don’t go to church. Can you imagine if someone told you this 25 or 30 years ago? You’d laugh in their face.

Folks there’s more to being true Americans, whatever your race or origin, or how you got to the U.S. There’s more to it than simply standing for the National Anthem at a football game. Or the Pledge of Allegiance. It’s about being human beings. And no, questioning what your government asks of you isn’t Un-American. To the contrary. Why do you think those Pilgrims of long ago broke free from the crown and established here? For freedom. While government is good for a few things, they don’t own you. So don’t let them.