Every Friday a group of Ball State University students gives out free hugs at the Scramble Light. During the last two years, I have done my best to get a hug every Friday. Once my last class is done for the week, I make my way to Riverside Avenue to receive a hug from someone I have never met or seen before.
While I see others taking the time to receive hugs, the majority of students who brush these people off disappoint me.
Perhaps some students don't have the time to get a hug or don't want to upset their significant others, but I tend to think society just isn't as friendly as it once was.
Sometimes we are too involved in our own lives to acknowledge others. We are too concerned about "I" and not "you."
In 2003, the American hip-hop group Black Eyed Peas recorded a song entitled "Where Is the Love?" Five years later I am asking the same question.
More than ever, human beings are excluding themselves from the notion of civilization. With text messaging and the Internet, people are no longer expressing emotions and experiences in person. Instead, people are writing their feelings and attitudes that are often hard to construe.
This alludes to the notion of free hugs.
I commend the students who take the time on a beautiful Friday to stand at the Scramble Light and hug people they don't know.
Last week I asked one of the huggers why the group decided to offer free hugs.
"We do it for the love; we do it to make people happy," the person said. "For some students this is the highlight of their week."
And I totally agree.
Two weeks ago I accidentally caught the bus and forgot to receive my free hug. The consequence led me to write this column, because I realized how much I enjoy a free hug each Friday. To walk away from my last class and express my feelings for the weekend with someone else is truly a remarkable experience.
I realize some people are hesitant to give a random person a hug. Maybe you are reserved or just don't feel like it. Whatever the reason, I ask that you at least give it a shot. I don't give hugs that often, but I'll take the chance when I can get one. Besides, what's the risk?
One of the most common signs of love and affection, a hug is often used for comfort and support. But even in sporting events, a hug can be used to celebrate a win or championship. The unique feature about a hug is that it is practiced publicly. I wouldn't say many people are offended by seeing two people hug. And in a way, free hugs at Ball State are used to commemorate Friday.
I might not share the same political views as the people who give free hugs, but that doesn't mean I can't wrap my arms around them.
Since Sept. 11, people have become increasingly judgmental and fearful of their surroundings.
While I understand this notion, I still believe people could take the time to hug others.
After all, we're all the same: human beings.
Whether or not you feel comfortable receiving a hug from a stranger, at least acknowledge what these students are doing. It is not to promote a certain political view or organization, but rather to express the notion of love - something I think we need more of.
So, the next time you pass the Scramble Light on a Friday, take a second out of your hectic life and give a hug. If you do, I bet you'll feel good. And with so much hate and disparity in the 21st century, a hug can go a long way.
Jason Marer is a junior majoring in social studies education and writes 'Think to Exist' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper.
Write to Jason at jsmarer@bsu.edu
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