Button

“Do you really give hugs?”
“Of course I do!”
That’s how it all started.

Recently I was at the Bath & Body Works register with my kids when the associate behind the counter had spotted my Free Mom Hugs button and couldn’t resist asking. They started to reach across the counter, but that is not  my style. Nope, I walked right around that counter and gave them a full, big ol’ mom hug—the kind that says, “You’re safe, you’re seen, and you’re loved.” When we pulled away, the associate looked at me with this huge smile and said, “I knew you were a real one! You just made my whole weekend better!” I couldn’t help but smile back and say, “I’m so glad.” We paid for our things and left the store, but that moment stayed with me. My kids? They know I’m an ally through and through. I wear my Free Mom Hugs button proudly, and they’ve seen it in action before. Of course, they tease me—it’s part of the package when you’re a parent—but deep down, they know they’re lucky and blessed to have an affirming adult in their lives. Not everyone has that. They’ve come to understand that for many people, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, having someone who sees and accepts them fully can make all the difference. This time, though, I could tell it hit differently for them. Watching me step around that counter, hug a stranger, and make their day better wasn’t just a “mom thing” anymore—it was something deeper. It showed them the real impact of being there for people, even in the smallest, most unexpected moments.
And with National Coming Out Day today, I can’t think of a better reminder. It’s moments like these that remind me why visibility and affirmation are so important. We all want to feel like we belong, to feel supported and accepted for who we are. For some, it’s as simple as a hug. For others, it’s knowing someone stands with them as they step into their truth.

Peace #tutulady #forwardisapace