What is affection?  Is it purely physical?  Is it in one’s heart, unspoken, but felt deeply? Does it dwell in one’s mind, searching for a way to express itself?  It would seem to need a feeling of warmth, love, and tenderness. Without these feelings attached to it, any physical actions would  not be viewed in this way, would they?

I think that true affection can be seen and shown in something as small as a look filled with love.  A smile can be the vehicle for affection if the feeling attached is truly heartfelt. And hugs, hugs are one of the best ways to show these feelings and they can be given in so many ways to people, even if you don’t know them.  One can show compassion through a hug.

People are born with the capacity for love and the ability to show it.  But first it must be given in a selfless, loving way to us, in order for us to understand it and use it in relationship to others. Intention is key to learning what affection is.

Sometimes, when people have been mistreated, this kind of interaction will be viewed as suspicious.  Then, learning to trust is necessary before one can even begin to accept it. Only then, can hurt souls heal and hopefully learn how to accept and give affection.

True affection is something needed to form lasting personal relationships. We must be able to feel it for ourselves and give it freely to others.  This is what gives life meaning. It communicates, “I care.”

Sometimes people who have had little affection from people, will be able to receive and give it to animals.  Pets can bring out these feelings because they do not demand anything in return. And pets make us want to reciprocate those actions of love.

Most of all, a world without true affection, or caring for one another, would be a very bleak place indeed.  Therefore, let’s try to find ways to be more tender to each other. As long as our feelings are of goodwill, transformation can happen.  Sounds good to me. How about you?