Saturday, September 24, 2005
A firm handshake is telling. It tells me if a person shows professionalism. It gives me a positive impression of the person. On the other hand, a flimsy, flaccid handshake tells me that the person is not confident enough, or is half-hearted in striking a relationship with you.
The same rationale applies to hugs. Whenever I receive a hug that resembles more like a pat on the shoulder and a face that is reluctantly brought close to me, I feel the awkardness. It's like telling me, sorry I'm not close enough to you to give you a proper hug. Or maybe he or she feels uncomfortable showing their emo side, like me. But even not a very 'huggy' person like me makes sure when I give hugs to frens or receive hugs from them, they feel the sincerity from me. A firm hug delivers a strong message: genuine care and concern from a true friend.
I still feel touched whenever I recall Tone's hug after May's bday dinner outside MUISS lounge. I could feel that he was telling me he really treasure his frienship with all of us and he did enjoy himself when we used to hang out (as a team in MUISS). Last night, I gave the bday boy - Paul a hug and the same feeling bestowed upon me again. The same message.
So next time when you share a firm hug with a friend or a firm handshare with a business associate, ask yourself if you feel the same way as I do.
  |