An Important Part Of Love Is Touch

The reality is that not everyone is a 'toucher'. Because I was raised by parents who show their affection, no matter where they are, it is just a part of every day life. Our children are being raised in the same sort of way because Becky was also raised in a family similar to mine. I hope that you'll listen and consider what I'm talking about.
The sense of touch is a bonding type of sense. I clearly remember times in my life when I would awaken in the middle of the night feeling very ill. It was during those times that I wanted the touch of my mom to help make me feel better. As a young boy, she would hold me and rock me in the old wooden rocking chair. There was no better feeling in the world. Our children have all had that same experience.
As a grown man, I long for the touch of my sweet wife when things don't go quite how I hoped they would go. In the rare times that I'm sick, her touch is the healing power that I need. To hold Becky's hand is both comforting and soothing to my heart and soul.
I recall a conversation I had with a friend, a number of years ago. He was going through a particularly hard time. This time even took a toll on his marriage. He told me that the problems in his marriage came as a result of no affection being shown by his wife while he was going through this tough time. He didn't mean anything sexual he just said there was never even a hug or a kiss that would clearly show her willingness to empathize with him. Her attitude seemed to be to just toughen up and deal with the problems that he faced. There is a certain amount of truth to that philosophy too. I hurt for my friend because I receive sincere affection from my wife, every single day.
Our children need us to touch them so that they can feel our love. I believe that touch is an integral part of our existance.

Affection

My thought today, has a split audience, with differing opinions, but I feel strongly about my own personal belief on this issue, and wish to share.
The display of affection is both healing and needed in order for one to feel loved in completeness.  I don't believe that there is a time or a place, per se, for the display of affection between family members to be inappropriate.  I will give a kiss and a hug to my wife, children, parents, and siblings in the presence of anyone in any place.  That is appropriate at any time!
I sat downstairs and sang songs to our sons, this evening.  As our youngest child, Danny was falling quickly into sleep, I held his hand as I sang three of his favorite songs.  The touch of his hand on mine was powerful.  I felt grateful that he wanted to hold my hand.
I have enjoyed many times holding Becky's hand throughout our marriage.  I have enjoyed that she has never shunned my display of affection.  We have been blessed with her touch without ever worrying where we were at or who was in our presence.
Many years ago, while at a church meeting, Becky and I kissed.  An individual approached us about whether we thought that appropriate that we would kiss in public.  Becky and I both gave a look of disbelief that anyone would ever question that.  I wish more people would publicly display their affection for one another.  I'm not talking about 'making out' in public.  It is okay to hold hands, give a loved one a hug and kiss, or even kiss your spouse.
I have spoken with people that wish someone would show them, openly, that they love them.  They're talking about the need for someone to show some affection.
My dad serves the community of Sacramento through the Interfaith Council.  The representation from many different faiths makes his opportunity very rewarding.  He tells about some of the elderly people he visits with and how much they enjoy when he comes to talk to them about Jesus.  He isn't afraid to give hugs to these people.  I am so grateful for his efforts!
I hold the belief that if there is anyone on this planet who needs a hug from someone, I will do that for anyone.  I am grateful that I was raised to display affection.  The world needs more of the Christ-like display of touch.