[as they become men]

Once upon a time, when my boys were very small,
an older and wiser friend admonished me: 

"As your boys become men, don't stop hugging them.  
You might be prone to shy away.  
You might be prone to think they don't need it.  
But hug them long.  
And don't let go till they do."

I never forgot her words. 
Nor did I realize the wisdom in them. 

But now I do.
She was right.
And I understand.