Passing through warm embraces

On those late afternoons at the end of the year, when the autumn breeze rustles through the leaves, I remember the arms that have sheltered me through every stage of my life. These are the arms of my mother, my father, my close friends, and even those I only met once but who left a lasting impression on me. Each embrace is like a reminder, a comfort, a silent support, letting me know that I've never faced everything alone.

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As a child, I often followed my mother around, feeling her arms wrap tightly around me whenever the weather turned cold. She was always worried about me catching a cold or coughing; the biting cold of the northern winter was perhaps an enduring memory for her. Her embrace wasn't just physical protection; it was a reminder of my simple, peaceful childhood, of the boundless compassion she bestowed upon me. Sometimes, when I misbehaved and got scolded, all I needed was her hug, and all my anger and sadness would vanish. That's how my mother was—she never left my side, not even for a moment, knowing I needed her. My father, though he didn't often hug me, always placed his hand on my shoulder, and I felt his silent protection. He was a man of few words, but his gentle yet firm pats on the shoulder always instilled in me a strong sense of security. It was the confidence that, no matter how difficult things got, my father would always be there to support me, so that I could walk freely, stumble freely, knowing that there would always be arms ready to lift me up.

Growing up, I left home to live far from my family, and from then on, the embrace of friends became an important part of my life. I remember wandering the city at night, chatting over midnight coffee with friends. That's when other arms appeared – hurried hugs to comfort me after my first setbacks, pats on the shoulder when I was tired, and warm handshakes when I faced loneliness in a foreign land. Friends became my second family, always ready to embrace me whenever I needed them, reminding me that no matter where I am, I'm not truly alone.

One winter afternoon, I met someone by chance. Amidst the sunset-tinged scenery of Xuan Huong Lake, their embrace felt like a strange yet incredibly warm haven. Unlike the embrace of my mother or friends, this embrace held a very different feeling – a blend of love and protection. There was understanding, trust, a place I could lean on, without needing to be strong or hide anything. Perhaps it was the first time I felt an embrace bring peace without needing a reason. We shared many beautiful moments together: dreamy afternoons by the lake, sleepless nights of conversation, and silent, comforting hugs. Even though we are no longer together, that embrace remains a cherished memory. It reminds me of my vibrant youth, of the most genuine emotions I ever experienced. I understand that those arms, though only present for a brief moment, helped me mature and taught me the deeper meaning of protection in love.

Throughout my life's journey, there have been times when I've become a protector for those around me. Sometimes it's a hug for a friend grieving over a broken heart, a handhold for a younger sibling afraid of the future, or a gentle embrace for myself when I realize I need to be forgiving. These embraces, simple and wordless, are just sincere hugs conveying comfort and reassurance.

Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes I realize that a comforting embrace isn't always found from loved ones. Sometimes, it's a hug from a stranger, a gentle word of encouragement that warms the heart. Once, I met a little girl who took my hand when she saw I was sad. That innocent handshake seemed to transmit a special strength, making me feel warm again. I understood that protection doesn't always come from large arms, but sometimes it's just a small act from a compassionate heart.

Day after day, I cherish the embraces I've received more and more, and I'm not afraid to give my own embrace in return. Each embrace, each hug, has its own meaning. And I learn to remember them, so that when I recall them, my heart feels gentle, I feel loved, and I'm ready to love again.

Source: http://baolamdong.vn/van-hoa-nghe-thuat/202411/di-qua-nhung-vong-tay-am-b3f3252/