I am not really a "hugger." I know some people proudly proclaim they are, and this pandemic has sorely tested them because they can't randomly hug. I've thought about my preference for not hugging acquaintances and I've concluded it stems largely from Donna. She insisted on being hugged long and often, while she cried with happiness or sorrow. This may seem terrib;e of me, but I always felt there was more than a touch of manipulation in those hugs. I can write that, now that she is gone. Regardless, today is a day when I would joyfully hug others in relief and celebration, if there was no COVID risk.