Being held so tightly. The simple act of holding another human so close, to feel their body next to yours. To feel warmth in your bones. When the whole world stands still. When you let go and nothing or no one can harm you. When everything can fall apart around you, yet in that embrace you feel safe. To take away hurt and replace with love. Love of the most innocent pure kind, a love that only be felt when a true connection is made. A hug.

From your arms wrapped around me on a chilly summer evening in a field up North, mopping up my tears, me trying to understand the world.

Being held tight in a class room, listening, not knowing how to express how empty I felt, but being taught how to talk, to open, to let the barriers down.

Laying with you on a soft sofa, feeling wanted and loved for the first time. Learning the meaning of home.

The placing of your hands on my spine, knowingly, in the library. Calming me. Giving me the strength.

In the snug, my head on your chest falling asleep in your arms, a growing understanding of what bond a mother and daughter could have.

Holding me so tight I can hardly breathe, on a underground platform or in a pub, a cafe, park, or just in the street. Taking away all my anger and replacing it with love. The feel of your strong arms. My world falling apart but knowing I will, always, be forever safe with you.

Walking in the sunny streets under your shoulder, hand and fingers grip my shoulder, my arm wrapped round your waist. Feeling the sense of loss and confusion being replaced with reassurance and love.

Sat head resting on head as my tears so gently fall, as you don’t judge, just sit in a calming silence, together as one for a moment of stillness in busy parks and streets.

When I am in your arms

I am safe.

I feel loved.

I remember each and everyone one of these moments.

Many people have, and still, hold me tight. I hope you know you will never be forgotten. That I carry your love and kindness, knowledge and wisdom with me every day. You all have, and continue to, shape my life in good and positive ways.

SKB