The Big Hug

We have been living and working in the Holy Land since 1978. Recently, an event happened that deeply affected me.

One afternoon, there was a knock on our door. A man, whom I did not recognize, and a woman stood at the door. They asked if Pastor Munir was at home. I hesitantly invited them inside.

When inside, the stranger immediately gave me a bear hug and then he literally buried his face in my neck for an extended period.

I was taken aback and thought, “Who is this crazy man that is breaking all the cultural rules and mores by hugging me like this? He should not be doing this.”

It took a bit to sort out. He had been in the boys’ home 15 years ago. He remembers me as being his surrogate mother. I took care of him when he was sick, baked cookies, made spaghetti most Sundays, hid Easter eggs, and played Mrs. Santa Claus at Christmas for years. I was a there when he needed a mother. Thus the hug.

Boys change a lot between 15 and 30, and I did not recognize him. Now he came and visited us, who are an important part of his life, to see us and show us his fiancé. He wanted us to see how well he has done and be proud of our "son". We rejoiced with him.

I was glad that I helped him when he needed it. Not until I get to heaven and watch the video of my life will I once again see, and hopefully remember, all of the things I did as a missionary.

However, it is nice to get a hug as a thank you.