The great writer C.S. Lewis once said “Affection is responsible for nine-tenths of whatever solid and durable happiness there is in our lives.” If this is truly the case, then perhaps it’s time we explore affection in the weekend word.

af·fec·tion
əˈfekSH(ə)n/
noun

  1. a gentle feeling of fondness or liking.

There is no question that most people need affection in one form or another throughout their lives. Researchers have been studying the effects of affection on children for decades, and so far the research has shown that regular affection from a parental figure is necessary for proper brain development. Many orphans in Russia during the 80’s and 90’s did not receive regular love and affection from those who cared for them. Babies were left to cry alone in cribs. Young children had to learn how to self-sooth and protect themselves from other kids, or authority figures, in the orphanage. As a result, researchers found that they lacked proper social skills and literally had smaller, underdeveloped brains.

It seems like such a small aspect of life, but the need for affection is very important for the growth of our children. And if the studies are right, those who have to go without it will have a harder time as they grow older in life. Lack of affection is a threat to all orphaned children across the globe – including the orphaned children in Uganda right now. So many children are left on the streets without family, protection or affection. Without our intervention, they too could end up like the children I just described.

At Hope for Hearts, we provide a loving, caring environment that promotes growth and development. Our nuns provide loving support as parental figures, and the children become family, looking out and caring for one another. It is this type of environment that promotes brain development. Rather than striving to seek basic affection, kids can focus on furthering their education to lift themselves from Poverty to Prosperity.

A simple hug is a powerful thing. And while you may not be able to share a hug with our kids, you can provide an opportunity for them to share affection by sponsoring a child to attend our school today!

With Love,
Cristen