The Cost Of An Embrace

I recently saw a picture somewhere online of two people hugging with a caption reading "Free Hugs." It took my mind back to Guadalajara, this summer. My youth group went on a mission trip there and one day we walked around the main square with signs that told the world we were different. Those signs advertised "Free Hugs" (In Spanish). But this picture also took my mind down a strange path. I was thinking if free hugs are a big deal, there must be a cost to that hug. It's just logic for something to be free it must first have a cost. What is the cost of a hug? I don't pay people money for a warm embrace (but I suppose you could). What do I offer in return for a sign of a friendly connection? There are so many different types of hugs and I think each one comes with a different fee. A side hug is most comparable to a penny. We throw it way. You can get side hugs from anyone so the cost of that isn't even worth exploring further. Then you have the hug that as soon as it starts there comes a pat on your back signifying the end. It is a hug that you would give to a friend. The cost is just friendship. Nothing more or less. Then we move up to the big categories. You have a consoling hug. One you give a friend who needs it. The two people owe something to the other when a consoling hug is exchanged. They both have to be an emotional support. So don't go giving hugs to crying acquaintances. You don't want to have that between you and someone you don't know well enough. Then there is a loving hug. One I would give to someone I love. Words aren't good enough to describe that hug and it's cost. So I won't use any. There are probably more types of hugs but I think this is enough to get hugs and their cost on the mind.