I am very tactile, so this entry resonates very much for me. I try to be sensitive to others, though, realizing that not everyone welcomes a hug, a handhold, or a shoulder pat. Those touches always make me feel more connected to the other person in a tender way.
About a week after my mother had passed away, I had a regular check-up with a doctor. As she placed the stethoscope on my heart, she also placed her other hand on my back. That simple tender gesture was so comforting that it brought all of my tears to the surface. I think we were both very surprised. I appreciated her kindness and compassion in response.
In what ways can we create feelings of warmth and safety for others?
From cradle to grave most of us need to be 'enveloped' by love very often conveyed by touch. I totally agree with what you said in your first paragraph Ellen.