Hugging - the perfect cure for what ails you
(found this in the newspaper many years ago)

No movable parts
No batteries to wear out
No periodic checkups
Low energy consumption
High energy yield
Inflation-proof
No monthly payments
No insurance requirements
Theft-proof
Non-taxable
Non-polluting
And, of course, fully returnable
Hugging is healthy
It relieves tension
Combats depression
Reduces stress
Improves blood circulation
It's invigorating
It's rejuvenating
It elevates self-esteem
It generates goodwill
It has no unpleasant side effects
It is nothing less than a miracle drug.

One of the best benefits to being home is all the physical affection. Both my mom and dad have always been very affectionate - kisses in abundance, hugs, and my dad does this thing where he chases me, pins me down, and rubs his stubble on my cheeks. it's silly but also so very familiar.

my brother is affectionate in a different way. he uses me for judo practice. we've always played kind of "rough" but he's had to get a lot more careful as he's gotten bigger and stronger. our tour group in Europe all thought we were going out at first.

it's weird, though, that as people get older, there's generally less and less "approved" physical affection available unless they're in a relationship. how sad because sometimes the difference in a good day and a bad day is as simple as a hug.