In our family, hugs are significant. When the kids were living under our roof, it was the first thing we did in the morning, and the last thing we did at night. It’s probably not uncommon for many families; we hug when we’re happy, we hug when we’re sad, and we hug just because we feel like it. Our hugs show support, express love, and provide a space to be together. There are so many positive benefits to hugs.
I’d probably have to say the best hugs are after an artistic or athletic performance. Win or lose, whatever the outcome, the kids seek us out afterwards in the crowd, in the audience, or on the bleachers for a big hug.
When the final games, activities, and performances began to denote the ending of a high school career, the significance of these hugs rendered new meaning for me. They highlighted not only the end of a season, but an important transition for all of us – the kids would never perform on that stage again as a member of the musical group, run a course, or play on a court, again. So I began embracing these hugs as not only a sacred moment with my grown child, but a chance to begin to say goodbye to the experience surrounding the hug. The hug translated a new level of support.
We all prepare for transitions of life in our own way. I’ve chosen to prepare with a final embrace. As each season comes to a close; I take a deep breath, give a heartfelt squeeze, and hold for one precious moment longer.
The days of coaching elementary sports, driving kids to and from rehearsals, and the many hours in a gym will become distant memories. The hugs will stay with me forever.
Special Note: This picture captured the significance of a hug... This is what it looks like when it’s your last basketball parents’ night and you don’t want to let go of the player you have coached and cheered on since kindergarten…
KerryOn Questions
-Â How do you prepare for transitions of life?
- Have you experienced the significance of a hug?
- What are ways you can show support, express love, and provide a space for others?
Â
The Kerry behind KerryOn
My name is Kerry K. Fierke, Ed.D. (pron. Fear-Key) I have a unique combination of skills and experience – decades of fast-paced corporate experience in Fortune 100 companies and large health care organizations, combined with the academic rigor of a highly ranked research university. My focus is supporting others to create their own path to leadership development, lifelong learning, and a unique leadership legacy. Take a moment to focus on leadership, then KerryOn!
To see all KerryOn's and other leadership stuff, visit www.kerrykfierke.com.