I know we Brits have a reputation for being cold and standoffish but in the social groups I move in hugging between friends is common, regardless of gender or sexual orientation - vertical and fully clothed that is, your Royal Spriteness - so I’m always available for anyone who needs a little loving. ? ?.
This... this is incredible.
During our pride march this year, we walked hand in hand with complete strangers, and for just about 10 minutes, everyone was silent. We were all taking in the acceptance, and the love we all felt for each other - even if we didn't know one another. I don't understand why humans feel the need to make others feel unwelcome, or ashamed of their choices. My heart goes out to all those mentioned in the article, and to all those that weren't mentioned, in any article, ever. They just suffer the judging gaze of people everyday, without muttering a single word to anyone.
And what hurts me the most, is the fact that I saw people during our parade openly crying, and I saw people trying to hold back their tears. I cried. It's ok to cry. What's not ok is the fast that people are led to believe they need to hide their tears.
I would like to offer my company to anyone needing to talk. I mean... I know that I need someone to talk to. Everyone does. So please, please, do reach out. Even if it is just to share your own story about how your pride parade went, or about anything that has ever happened which has affected you, and you've never told anyone.
Not sure what to say only I'm a hugger and the hugs I give is the back-breaking, rib-crushing, I-can't-breathe, please stop hugging me kind of hug and I don't care who you are ?
"Yeah, we all shine on, like the moon, and the stars, and the sun." John Lennon
Take a look at my new poem for the competition:
Most arms are always open, by ears are always available, and my mind is always free to pick
..anytime, anywhere, anyhow ? ..let me know ..huggie hug hug 
