When I say,
"I need a hug"
I don't mean those simple ones.

Those easy one-arm-over-one-arm-under,
Those awkward-pats-on-the-back,
Those that say I-don't-really-mean-it,
Those that reply this-makes-me-uncomfortable.

I don't mean them.

I mean clinging to you like a man to driftwood amidst a roaring storm,
I mean burying my face in your embrace to smother my frustration,
I mean being held tight enough to stop myself from falling apart,
I mean feeling safe from the world outside the shelter of your arms,

I need a hug.