Sometimes You Just Need a Hug
Today is National Hugging Day. I usually would not call attention to this day. First, I only read about its existence this morning, and second, I am not a fan of hugging. But even I will admit there are times where hugging is essential to our emotional, spiritual, and mental health. I learned to appreciate some hugs during my missionary service for my church. The first day in the mission field was exciting and awful all at the same time. I spent twenty plus hours on planes or layovers traveling from Salt Lake City to Perth, Australia, and was already feeling the pains of separation anxiety from my family. It was a blazing hot day, which I knew would be foreshadowing my tenure in Australia. My two traveling companions and I were greeted at the airport by our Mission President and his wife. President and Sister Jones, our assigned mission leaders, were so excited to see us and get to know us; it was overwhelming talking to them. The three of us were swept away to the mission home a