I am not a physical touch person. I repeat, I am not a physical touch person.
Here in Chile physical touch is part of their language– they greet you with a peck on the cheek or cheek to cheek, as they hug you. It is simply a part of who they are. This is how they show you are loved and cared for, right from the gecko.
I will be honest, it was very overwhelming and awkward for me. I grew up with three brothers and we punched each other as a form of affection. The most hugs I got from them was the morning of my departure for the World Race.
But as time went on in this beautiful country, I learned how to simply appreciate it. I learned to slow down and take in the warmth they are giving me in the simple gesture they do everyday, all the time.
Even my teammates who are a mix of physical touch people and not, learned to give me space in this regard, but also found that there will be times (although rare) when I will ask for a hug. They are betting that I will be the most affectionate, huggable person by the time they are done with me. And the funny thing is, although they don’t know it is that I am betting and even hoping this will come true. I want to change from the inside, and be more loving outwardly and all the more so upwardly for Jesus. Hence my team’s hashtag of #inupandout on social media.
I’m currently in the beautiful costal city of Viña del Mar where the rest of my squadmates and I have reconvened. We’re here for a few days to reconnect and rest before making the long haul to Mendoza, Argentina. There we’ll be living as a community as it is All-Squad Month, but we will still be split up by teams when doing ministry.
On that note, I have heard it through the grapevine that in Argentina they not just give you one kiss/peck but two kisses, one on each cheek as their form of greeting. I’m not sure if I’m ready for this but I’m ready to brace myself, Lord willing 🙂
Bonus feature:
My first hug from our ever affectionate Pastor Juan. He’s been holding out until my last day with him for this moment. It was all but warm, crushing and above all loving.
