I needed a hug.  

I needed a long, strong embrace.  
Not so much for being lonely, or for pity, but to feel grounded and connected to Earth.  I needed a hug to prove that I exist, to feel acknowledged.

With no one around, or available, or willing, I withered into sleep.  

The dream went through many stages before I arrived at the pizzeria.  It was a dark, colorless environment, as if the background was filmed in black and white, the foreground, however,  was in color.  

My family was present and seated around a large table. In a counter clockwise rotation, Grandma, Dad, Brother, Mother, Sister, Me, my cousin, my aunt, and finally my uncle.  Everyone seemed happy and laughing, except my Grandma.  She was huddled down with her head in hand.  She was heaving as if she was crying, I stood up to go comfort her when I noticed my Grandfather standing next to her.  His hand on her shoulder.  

My Grandfather passed away just over a year ago, but here he looked vibrant and youthful and healthy.  He caught me looking at him.  He looked astonished that I could see him, while the others continued their conversations.

I mumbled out, "Grandpa?" and the room became silent, and everyone looked at me.  Grandpa disappeared and reappeared in front of me.  He gave me a solid stare, grinned, and then hugged me.

My family was confused, and I realized they still couldn't see Grandpa.  He released and backed away from me and then vanished.

I didn't see him anymore, but watched as each person around the table received invisible hugs.  

I realized I was crying and woke up, finding myself physically in tears.

I no longer felt sad, or lonely, and whispered out "Thank you.  Thank you for this experience."

Reality set in and I became more and more aware and awake.  I felt stronger, grounded, and secure.

I jumped in the shower and felt comforted by every bead of water that struck my body.

Hugs are powerful, and very important, and I hope that those of you reading are aware of this.  Give hugs, ask for hugs, do not refuse an offer.  Though someone may offer a hug to comfort you, they may equally need one in return.  As comforting as the dreams may be, don't let them rely only on hugs from dead relatives...


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