Frankie says, "Go ahead ... reach out and touch."
We are built for connection, you and I. From our first breath to our last we are programmed to need each other, to belong, to attach and to love one another. It is hard wired into our DNA – we are built for love. It is our fear of getting hurt that halts us from allowing ourselves to connect fully with another. While there’s no guarantee that you will never get hurt by sharing your heart, your joy, your being … the real gift lies … in the act of extending it.
So true!! Years ago, I read how very important being touched is to an elderly person. I’ve remembered that all these years. Your post today brought that to mind.
(love the picture!)
Good point, Dianna. I often think of that fact (elderly persons) when I’m in the grocery store and end up with some little older fellow up close telling me his joke … Cheers! MJ
Thanks…I think everyone needs reminding of this all-important fact from time to time, as we get cynical and jaded from disillusionment and useless resentments….and yes, even fear I think.
Though I think I’ve come a long way from being a non-touchy-feely person to what I am now! Way more inclined to reaching out 
If only humans were as simple as cats and dogs
I was reminded of this on Sunday when my 2 year old grand-daughter melted herself into my arms … she loves to be hugged and I love to hug on her! Cheers! MJ
Great post today…as usual. I’m in agreement with you. We are all connected. In my process to become more whole, I am leaving my neediness behind. It feels good to come to the table with something to give to others and not just needing something from them.
Thank you, Lissa. I am quite sure that you bring a lot to the table!! Cheers .. MJ
When I was pregnant and teaching high school, it was amazing to me how the kids unabashedly touched my tummy. It would never have occurred to me to be so “bold.” I never resisted…they taught me a lot about touching and that it was okay.
Great story!! Thank you for sharing it, MJ
Love your dog photos! And yes, we’re built to connect!
Thanks~Sheila
Thanks; Frankie loves nothing more than a good belly rub, or perhaps a snack or 20. MJ
yes…but when we learn at an early age that love is conditional, being vulnerable becomes frightful. That’s what I wish all homes were…a place of unconditional love and support, and I supposed many of them are. Perhaps a mandatory unconditional love class for all those considering a family would give kids a fighting chance to be open to all the joy, laughter, pain, tears, happiness that is life.
Well .. thankfully I didn’t learn that love was conditional, but if I had, I can see how loving again would be truly frightening and risky … I see what you mean; we need licenses to drive a car but there’s no real test for being a parent .. and unfortunately some come to the arena less prepared and skilled than others. Thank you for your thoughtful comments! MJ
This makes my heart happy. I completely agree with you!