AIBU to wish we could give hugs?

[deleted203]

Lots of lovely smileys on the list. AIBU to wish we could have one that did hugs? And what would we have for an icon? So many posts I've felt that the OP or other posters needed a hug from someone. I keep offering alcohol instead .

alcohol is better

i am firmly against hugs on mumsnet

stuff upper lip etc

offer wine and flowers

and brackets(()) in the direst of circumstance only

Flowers & alcohol are generally how I show gratitude/empathy in rl. Not a big one for contact willynilly :o

I like hugs on other fora, but I like the novelty of stiff upper lippness on Mumsnet. it's amusing. Especially when you deliberately flout it and start hugging people anyway

Something about Mumsnet makes me want to be subversive. I think it's because it's so "Head-Girly". I was always the naughty one at school...

Hug smileys annoy me. So lazy. They use them on other forums I've frequented in place if having to engage brain and empathise.

If I'm having a difficult time, I am far more appreciative of a simple, empathetic statement, even something like "I don't know what to say, other than I'm really sorry you are going through this" than "hugzzz hunni [obnoxious hug emoticon]. The latter is the domain if the bleating sycophant and is tarnished by association.

Hugs have to be reserved for very special cases, otherwise they stop meaning anything. There's nothing casual about a Mumsnet hug. If you get one it's because you really really need and deserve one. Start throwing 'em around like dolly mixtures and then what's left for those occasions when only a hug will do? (Suggestions on a postcard.)

YABU.