Juan Mann had just come back to Sydney from London after his world turned upside down, and he had to go home. All he had left, was a carry on bag full of clothes, and a world full of trouble.

Standing in the airport watching other passengers meeting their family and loved ones, he felt alone. Alone in a world of people happy to see their loved ones.

He made a cardboard sign with “Free Hugs” on it, found a busy intersection, and stood there, holding the sign aloft.

But for a long time he was ignored, until a little old lady shared some of her grief, and received a hug in return.

And so starts the story of the ‘Free Hugs’ Campaign.

Feel free to click through and read more about it – it’s a story about loving others, being loved, and bringing a smile on people’s faces.

It is well known among my friend circle that I enjoy giving people hugs – so this idea strikes home with me.

I recently bought a shirt with large-letter “Free Hugs” on the front and back, which I’ll be wearing as much as I can – trying to live in the spirit, without needing to carry a sign with me everywhere. 🙂

So go out and give your friends a hug!