"Touch seems to be as essential as sunlight." - Diane Ackerman

In my life there have been a universe of touches good and bad. What I have come to realize in my moments of clarity is the immense influence human contact generated by love and compassion can have upon the individual's well being. Like soaking in the sunlight rich with Vitamin D, the glowing warmth of affectionate physical contact can lighten the spirit and the heart.With complete disclosure I admit this has not been my philosophy for much of my life, but recent developments have allowed me to acknowledge that sometimes the only thing that can treat a troubled soul is a hug from someone who cares or a cuddle with a sister while she rests.By witnessing the anguish of another I have learned that there is nothing I would rather do in the world than sit on the lazy-boy, curled up next to someone I love...holding hands.