A Hug for a Lifetime

After breaking my back in 1976 and having all my lumbar vertebrae fused, except for L5, I expected someday to have issues with the L5-S1 disc. In the early 80’s the disc herniated and I was back on the operating table and really scared. Surgery prep was quick and the surgeon was confident, but I was back in 1976 reliving a pain that never stopped and fighting a morphine addiction. I woke up in SICU alone, too scared to move and immediately started crying. At some point my need for the touch or a hug from someone else became three words I said out loud, “I need a hug”, and immediately I got one filled with a warmth and love I will never forget. I have never doubted that I had felt the hand of God.