Amnesty For All

On Sunday I shared that I generally hug family and people I date and am uncomfortable with other hugs. This was met with a large response of people apologizing for hugging me. This is really unnecessary.

Two things. First, I don’t take time to nuance every point in a message. Trust me, you're glad I don't. Second, I sometimes do exaggerate to make a point. I use hyperbole. I don’t feel bad doing that, because Jesus did it in his teaching ministry. I don’t make up things, but I give myself artistic license in telling my own stories.

So the more nuanced version is that I am comfortable hugging family, dates, and some other people. The “some other” people are people who 1) I’ve known for a while and 2) I’m sure will not misconstrue my hug for romantic interest and 3) are "huggy" types themselves. But that’s really too much information and unnecessary detail in a sermon. Right?

So don’t worry about it. OK? Amnesty for All!