I was watching the Oprah show the other day and this guy was trying to spread acts of kindness by going around and giving people hugs. So my question is this "If someone came up to you and wanted to give you a hug would you let them or would you think they were a pickpocket?
2006-10-31 23:35:44 · 34 answers · asked by couchP56 6 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
No, I would think it's weird. Besides that I do not believe fake acts of kindness are a good thing, I think you should only hug people when you really feel they need a hug and that you want to give them a hug... not just because you think if you hug people they'll feel better whether or not you truly feel like hugging them!
2006-10-31 23:39:06 · answer #1 · answered by rinah 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I saw the same show you did. I thought it was interesting to watch peoples reactions to him, and how over the course of a couple of years, he was more and more accepted. I personally am a hugger, but I don't usually hug strangers. I don't think I would push someone away tho. A long time ago I was down on my luck, and a stranger helped Me out. When I tried to repay them, they said they didn't want any money back, just that everyday, to try to bring a smile to someones face. I have never forgotten that, so, while I may not go up to a stranger and hug them, I think sometimes just a smile and a hello to someone, makes them respond positively. It wouldn't matter to me If I hugged or was hugged by a pickpocket, I don't carry anything on Me worth taking.
2006-10-31 23:43:08 · answer #2 · answered by MommaSchmitt 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it's all in the sign! I saw the same show and thought it was cute! However, I'd judge the person to some degree, to try and sum up his mental disposition, but if it's in a public setting sure, plenty of people around, I'd show some love.
Free hugs, don't work for back alley crack streets at 3.a.m though!
2006-11-02 09:02:09 · answer #3 · answered by Manatee 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know that I would think that they were a pickpocket. I have no problem hugging and being affectionate with people I know. I do like personal space when dealing with strangers so I would have to say no I would not be comfortable with that.
2006-10-31 23:40:15 · answer #4 · answered by Hopey 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It wouldn't be a real hug. It would be a perfunctory hug. I wouldn't think they were a pickpocket unless they were because I know when somebody is touching my butt and I don't keep money in my back pockets, only the front and if he can get his hands in there, we better be married! LOL!
No! We all need at least 18 inches of personal space. I would say, "Hey, aren't you going to at least buy me dinner first?" LOL!
2006-10-31 23:40:31 · answer #5 · answered by sherijgriggs 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Personally I do not like hugging people, but I grew up in a multi-culturl environment where MANY hug merely as a freindly gesture. I have learnt to accept it, and appreciate it. I personally, however prefer not to be touched by strangers.
2006-11-01 00:12:59 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I won't let them. I'm too suspicious that he might be a pickpocket.....even if he or she is good looking or look proper. I don't mind if someone came up to me and wants to give me some money. I will take it. Ha ha!
2006-11-01 19:41:34 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Turn slightly to one side and grab the persons hand and shake. That should give them a clue that you don't want to be touched. Never hug a stranger.
2006-11-01 00:05:36 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I wouldnt let a complete stranger hug me not with the state of the world today.
2006-10-31 23:43:47 · answer #9 · answered by Sarah M 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes I would.
There have been so many times in life when I have needed a hug and nobody was there - I just couldn't turn them away
2006-10-31 23:49:42 · answer #10 · answered by shauny2807 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋