The Importance of a Heartfelt Hug
After a grueling cross-country race, a simple embrace was what my daughter needed — not advice
It was a long, drive in stop-and-go traffic Thursday night after coaching two long volleyball matches to visit my mom in San Pedro. It was another long two-hour drive the next morning to see my daughter race in San Diego in her latest cross-country meet.
She had been sick all week, hadn’t even gone to any practices, and was coming off a disappointing run the week before.
Things looked bleak for a strong showing.
It was, by far, her toughest race of the season to battle through and her worst time.
But this story isn’t about the race. It’s about after the race.
It’s about a hug.
A heart-warming, wish-I-knew-what-to-say, loving, and supportive hug.
A much-needed hug.
A father-daughter hug.
She had come in umpteenth place, seventh on her team, and had her lowest time this year, which was understandable. Battling a cough and cold, she had just crossed the finish line.
Dejected. Disappointed and in despair.
