31 Hugs - Announcement

I hear a friend is going through a hard situation. I want to let them know that they’re not alone, and they are so valuable, and it will be alright. I want to give them something to make them feel special and loved. I want to send them a hug.

I read a book that introduces me to new people and places, and stirs up my feelings. I want the author to know how talented they are. I want them to realise that their words matter and they’re changing lives. I want to send them a hug.

I read a blog post which shares hope, brings lonely souls closer together, and helps me refocus on what matters. I want to make sure the writer understands that God is using them. I want them to know that they’re a light in a dark world, and their beacon will lead people home. I want to send them a hug.

Family and friends surprise me with indications of their thought and care. I want to give something back to tell them how much I appreciate them, and how much they mean to me. I want to ensure they realise they’re precious. I want to send them a hug.

I find some new music, which gets me excited and inspired. I want to contact the musicians and let them know that they have been a blessing to me, that God has spoken through their music. I want to encourage them to never give up, because they are instruments for hope and healing. I want to send them a hug.

But here’s the truth, cold and hard: I don’t. God uses so many people to encourage me in so many different ways, every day. And how often do I take a moment of time to let them know, to encourage them, to say thank you? Not nearly in proportion of blessing I have received. I want to spread hope and love and joy in this world, yet I have been overlooking the simplest of ways right in front of me. 

I want that to change.

Freely ye have received, freely give. Matthew 10:8

You’ve probably picked up by now, I like doing monthly challenges. I believe that they provide excellent opportunities for exploring new skills, developing talents, and adding an exciting challenge to each day. So for the month of October, I’m challenging myself to send a hug to someone every day. And I’m inviting you to join me.

What do I mean by ‘send a hug’?

Most of the people who bless and encourage me do so from a distance, so I can’t give them a literal hug. (And I’m not a super hug-y person, to be honest.) It would also be nigh on impossible to meet all the authors and bloggers and musicians in real life. 

I am talking about what a hug means – appreciation, thankfulness, gratitude, letting someone know you’re by their side. By ‘sending a hug’ I mean letting people know you appreciate them and what they’ve done, or you’re there for them. That could mean a literal hug and a few words, but I’m envisaging my hugs will be in the form of words in a card, or letter, or text message, or email, or some other way. You might give gifts, or make phone calls, or plan outings, or however you feel best conveys to another person that you care for them, and are grateful for them and how they encourage you – all the things we show by literal hugs.

I’m intending to send a hug every day of October, but you’re welcome to adapt this challenge to whatever you can manage. Maybe aiming for sending two or three hugs a week, or still sending 31 hugs, but giving a few extra on the weekend so you don’t have to do it every day through the week will work better for you. Set your own goals, but remember it doesn’t have to be a long, time-consuming activity. It could just be a few words, or a quick note. We never know how much a simple thank-you might mean to someone. 

I’m planning to post some tips and ideas on the first of October to get us kick started, but in the meantime, is anyone planning to join me? Who wants to be part of this adventure in spreading sunshine and giving back? Have you got any questions or suggestions? I’m excited already! :D