CLEVELAND — Thursday marks National Hug Day, but due to ongoing COVID-19 concerns it’s more of a virtual hug these days. 3News' Jasmine Monroe spoke to the experts -- grandparents -- about how they pivoted during these tough times.
“Grandmothers give the best hugs!” said Nicole Huffman.
Dorothy Macklin agrees.
“The kids get really excited when I give it to them. They’re like, ‘Ooooh, I got a hug from grandma!’”
Maybe it’s the unconditional love?
“I’m very good at giving good hugs, because the person I’m giving good hugs to I idolize – my grandchildren," said 88-year-old Marilyn Helm who goes by Na'Ma.
Or maybe it’s the unlimited snacks?
“Call it what you want (laughs), it’s grand parenting!” said Rev. Lewis Macklin
There's also the sense of security a hug brings.
“A hug really does give a sense of security, love, affirmation and it also says, ‘We’re OK,'" Macklin said.
But many of us have not been OK throughout the coronavirus pandemic because hugging is not a form of social distancing. Rev. Lewis and Dorothy Macklin say that one-on-one time is critical.
“I’m really hopeful that the worst is behind us, because that contact is so important," Macklin said.
We all know the best is yet to come, so until then take a virtual hug. You can also send words of encouragement or hit that love button on Facebook instead of that thumbs up. It might not be as good as a real hug, but it definitely shows you care.
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