Dr. Colin
The Power of Touch
I believe in the healing power of touch. Historically, we often talk about the "laying on of hands" by absolute monarchs, the unique healing power that monarchs were said to have to cure the ills of their subjects simply by touching them directly with their hands. Rasputin, the so-called "Mad Monk" was reputed to have a mystical power to ease the physical suffering of the young Alexis. Even Christ was reputed to banish infirmities from his believers simply by placing his hands upon them. While these phenomena may be exaggerated in historical literature, I do believe that touch is the greatest healer humanity has. The power of touch rejuvenates us, it exchanges the flow of energy between individuals, it reinforces that we are not alone in our struggles in life. Touch, in its many forms, connects us to others, complete the natural circle of energy, and allowing us to feel its flow.
I am a healer. I touch people. From a warm embrace to a gentle touch of the hand, I find ways to connect with others on a daily basis, and in so doing, I join my soul with theirs, and complete the circle of energy that surrounds us all. When someone is in pain, my first response is to reach out and enfold them in the protective, healing circle of my arms. Think back to your earliest childhood memories, and I will bet that they involve being held by someone in your life - cradled by a mother, rocked by a grandmother, carried on the shoulders of a father, hugged by a friend. These are the moments that give us the strength to continue through the rough times, and that create a sense of security and warmth in the highest times.
I discovered the power of touch early on in my life, and I have been sharing the gift ever since. I still remember that moment, when I found the injured bird that we nursed back to health, as I sat for hours stroking its feathers and willing it to regain strength. The day we released the bird, I held it in my hand, its claws gripping my finger tightly, and I felt it squeeze just a bit tighter before it finally flew off. And the first time I experienced death, at age six, I still remember the strong, calming hand of my father on my shoulder as I stood at my grandfather's casket. The power of touch carried me through that moment of distress, and strengthened me. In my own life, I have been blessed with the touches of many others, granting me love and strength at countless moments in time. I always take the opportunity to pass on healing through my own touch as well.
The power of touch should not be dismissed. Try an experiment. Go for a whole week without touching anyone, in any way, and see what it does to you. Then make it a conscious point to engage in contact with someone. See the difference it makes. Touch, even casual touch, infuses us with a new sense of power and love. I challenge you to become a healer in your own right, and share the power of touch in your circle of humanity, too. Believe, as I do, in the healing power of touch.
About Dr. Colin
Dr. Colin is an Assistant Professor of History, in her fourth year of teaching at the college. When asked about her favorite aspect of Mercyhurst, she states: "I love Mercyhurst. The first time I stepped onto the campus to interview, there was a real sense of "home" to me. It has a particular sense of community that is lacking most other places I have been."