This moment just hit me. My Dad and I went to visit my Aunt and Uncle at their nursing home yesterday. My Uncle shrieked with delight. They haven’t seen each other in 10 years.
But why was I awashed in tears thinking about the patient who saw us parting?
She couldn’t speak but beckoned me over. She pointed at her cheek a little frantically and smiled. At first I thought she was in pain but then I figured out why. She wanted us to come over and hug her and kiss her goodbye too. Good Lord. She squealed and giggled at our hugs and kisses while saying we would see her next time. My aunt and uncle get visited 3-4 a week at a minimum. My Dad and I have been shaking our heads all evening at a stranger wanting our kisses, hugs, and greetings.
I admire her advocating for own self care. She wanted to be touched, kissed, and fussed over.
As one friend put it, she wanted to Feel Love.
Count your blessings.
