Affection...Is it an Important Element of Life?

During the record breaking snow storms this month in the DC metro, I realized how important it was to have interaction with other people. I was stuck in my condo for the majority of about 8 days alone and had more than enough time for some self reflection. The biggest thing I came up with was that not only was human contact important but also having an element of affection. I was fortunate to be able to take some breaks from myself and hang out with my neighbors a few times, but somehow it just wasn't the same as being around friends or family who could give me a reassuring hug or look that everything was going to be fine.

As I've grown, affection has become such an important component of my life. It's great to have intimate relationships, but I've come to realize that affection doesn't have to always be romantic. Simply having friends and family there to provide a kind hug or touch just to let you know that you are loved has become a crucial part of life. I even find that genuine affection coming from my family is in one of its purest forms, because it comes from a very unconditional place. Despite my mistakes, I can always depend on my family to give me that reassuring boost of affection that makes me know that things will work out. There is nothing better than being able to crawl in my father's lap (yes I still do that at my age) or see the excitement in my niece and nephews eyes when I see them as they run up to give me a huge hug. All of this for me is necessary to feel like I'm loved and helps me maintain a balance in my life. The strongest person still needs reassurance of loved ones.

My friends have helped to fill that void that I sometimes have from being away from my family and the deficit of affection that I may sometimes feel. I've created a "chosen family" here that loves me, supports me, and provide the affection that is crucial for my life. So I pose the question to you: How important is affection in your relationships? (intimate relationships, family, friends, etc.)