Sabbath mornings are going great — you’re singing, you’re focused, you’re spiritually in the zone — and then BOOM:
“Turn around and greet three people!”
Suddenly the sanctuary transforms into Hug Fest 2025 and I’m caught in the pew equivalent of a mosh pit led by enthusiastic deacons.
I love Jesus.
I love people.
But I’m not spiritually prepared for a surprise hold-the-line embrace from someone I just met.
It’s Not About Coldness — It’s About Comfort
Some folks recharge with hugs.
Others of us recharge by not being physically ambushed mid-hymn.
And that’s okay!
We can show warmth in oh-so-many delightful, less… grappling-focused ways:
A smile that doesn’t feel like a dentist instructed it
A classy little nod (“Happy Sabbath, citizen”)
A quick wave like we’re both in a parade
A gentle “Morning!” from a respectful distance
Friendliness ≠ tackle hug.
Extroverts: We Salute You
We appreciate your energy.
You keep potluck lively.
You carry bulletin boards on your backs.
But greeting time doesn’t have to be WWE: Welcome Edition.
Some of us are just trying to protect our personal space and shoulder joints.
Even Jesus Didn’t Hug Everyone
He connected in ways that fit the moment — sometimes touch, sometimes conversation, sometimes just noticing someone who needed kindness.
We can do that too.
My Dream Church Moment
Imagine:
• Optional handshake lanes
• “Wave-from-afar” pew zones
• A mutual understanding that friendliness can be customized
• Zero guilt if you stay planted like a well-watered tree
Heaven-level hospitality, no surprise squeezes.
So Please Know:
I like you
I’m glad you’re here
I simply worship better when greeting time is not a group hugathon
Let me wave.
Let me smile.
Let me breathe.
It’s still love. It’s still community.
It’s just introvert-friendly.
❤️ Love BarelyAdventist? Support us on Patreon for as little as $1 per month
