One morning, as my boss and I walked across campus after a 9/11 tribute during which she’d read a poem to hundreds gathered at the special ceremony, we came across two young male students sitting in lawn chairs. The sign next to them said “Free Hugs”. The second we stopped, they leapt to their feet and threw open their arms, huge smiles on their faces. My boss and I looked at each other, nodded, and stepped straight into the embraces of strangers. For me, it was one of the most comforting hugs I’ve ever experienced. It filled me with gratefulness. And hope.
This year, I am sharing Miss MOL’s post instead of contributing one of my own. Her account of visiting Ground Zero a few weeks after 9/11/2001 gives me goosebumps, especially the ending. I highly recommend the read. You’ll be glad you stopped by.
I love the free hugs thing! It’s a hope-reviver.
I’ll never forget it. Just the 2 of them, their beach chairs, the sign, their big smiles, the hugs. Very helpful.
On your recommendation I went to Miss MOL’s post and read. It was truly touching. Thanks for tip.
You’re so welcome and so glad you clicked over for the read!