Hug Someone with Your Prayers

I saw this on Facebook a few minutes ago and just loved the sentiment of it.   It is one of the wonderful posts from Smoky Mtn. Christian Village that a family member posted.

Hugs are such wonderful things.  They tell the person being hugged that they are loved and cared about.  But what about all those family members and friends in our lives who we truly care about and love?  How can we hug them?   We can give them what I call “virtual hugs”.  Many years ago, I worked in a shelter for young boys aged 11-17, from troubled backgrounds who were brought to us until they were transferred to other homes. There stories were all different but all very sad, to say the least.   Of course we could not have physical contact with them so no hugs.  One night I was sitting with two 12 years olds (yes really!) who were on suicide watch.  How heartbreaking!  These boys felt so unloved and could have used a lot of hugs, so I taught them how to give themselves hugs.  Put your right hand on your left shoulder, your left hand on your right shoulder, and squeeze tight!   I told them that it was a virtual hug from me, but more importantly it was a real hug from themselves. The message it hopefully gave was that they are special, they are important and they are loved!

Many times I will still use that method when talking or writing with someone from afar and it usually gets them to smile, at least for a few minutes, and hopefully plants a seed in them that they are loved and cared about when life seems to be throwing unhappy things their way.

As this little cartoon above portrays, there is another wonderful way to hug from afar, a more important way, if you will.   Prayer!   What a wonderful feeling it is when we know others are praying for us; that they think we are worthwhile enough for someone to pray for.  I remember when I had my knee surgery last spring and people from far and wide, including fellow bloggers on 5 continents were praying for me!  Wow!   Can you imagine how loved I felt and how far that took me in my recovery?

Hug your friends, family and acquaintances and even strangers today with your prayers! Be sure to let them know you are praying for them.  You just may turn someone’s day around and give them smiles for a time instead of tears or worry.

Praying for all of you today because I care about you!