In writing a book, we are encouraged not to use the same words over and over. Discussing this at the last session I had with my book coach, she inspired me to get curious about hugs. How many words do we have to describe this act that speaks volumes with no words?
Using the super fun website Visuwords.com, I determined that the amount of words we have for hugging can be counted on one hand. At least, the ones that describe the type of hugs I experienced on my journeys. Hug Cuddle Embrace Hold Yet, the indigenous cultures in Alaska have up to 50 words for snow. Do we need more words for hugs or was it always meant to be an experience the transcends words? One in which words may get in the way? Since Brené Brown released her book, Atlas of the Heart I am more acutely aware of how few words I am familiar with and comfortable using for emotions. The more words I learn, the greater capacity I have for communicating my feelings with others. I believe the same can be true for hugs. I am far too often at a loss to be able to describe particular hugs that I have experienced. It all sounds contrived and too similar. Maybe, if we had more words, we could better communicate how a hug feels, how it looks, what it means, and find better connection in that space. As a believer in the power of words. I believe the creation of new words for a hug can only enhance the experience, not diminish it. Ok, so now, who knows how these new words get created? I need to get on this.
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AuthorMelinda Lee is a mom of two adolescent boys, a devout student of all things spiritual, a recovering perfectionist, and immensely fascinated with achieving the unachievable. Currently writing a memoir about hugging strangers. Archives
February 2023
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