Multo.com :: Visual Magic

Touching and Moving

Anthony, Wendell and some buddies hugging it out

There is not a single true work of art that has not in the end added to the inner freedom of each person who has known and loved it.
-Albert Camus 

This weekend, the Church of Smile descended on Union Square and gave free hugs and candy.  The Church is not a religious organization, but a collection of good friends who believe in social change, one person at a time.  Started by Anthony D’Onofrio in Arkansas, the Church gathers in public and literally just gives out hugs and candy to ANYONE who wants them.  Often, Anthony gets people to take a hug when they have been hesitant.

Saturday in Union Square was a experiment in social research, to say the least.  The younger a person was, the more open to getting a hug they were.  Gender at times could have been an issue, but Anthony and Wendell are such naturally warm, welcoming people, and they radiated a nice, safe charm.

Being the only woman for a while, I got approached by some men looking for my number.  That definitely was not the point of the day.  Hahaha…  But a hug, a big smile and some candy sent them off happily.

Touching in a non-invasive, no strings attached way is something we need more of.  I could feel the longing for touch and the way it moved some people.  One girl definitely was happy we hugged her, as she seemed like she wasn’t having a good day.  Haven’t you ever just wanted someone to hug you, for no reason, just because you are you and that’s wonderful enough?

The Church of Smile headed back to Arkansas…but I’m sure it will be back very soon.

Peace,
Melissa