I have, as of late, had the song "Hands on Me" stuck in my head. It is a perpetually annoying situation to be in, mainly because despite singing the song aloud, trying to sing the (poorly written) National Anthem in place of it, and getting my friend to sing "I know a song that gets on everybody's nerves", the tune remains blaring in my head.
I suppose the larger motif of the song is an encounter with the Dali Llama, an interesting and innovative topic in a world of music based in love, sex, vengeance, or triviality (or a combination of the aforementioned) But I started to meditate on the refrain "And if you don't believe me, just put your hands on me"
And I wonder if our society is too sterile.
Of course, we have reason to be slightly germaphobic, what with all the various diseases running rampant. But the simple fact of the matter is people don't reach out and touch each other much anymore unless they are in an intimate type of relationship, be it close friends, family, or romantic interest.
Maybe I look at the world kind of slanted because I'm a theatre kid, but I suspect that if we dropped those physical boundaries, the world may be a slightly more peaceful place. I mean, who starts a war midway through a hug? We're afraid of being perceived as weird or needy, but I think deep down physical contact is something that everyone desires and needs, and there shouldn't be any shame in that. I would venture to suggest that the road to progress is lined with people holding hands, hugging, and maybe even dancing.
So, kids, if you want to change the world, reach out and touch someone.
And if you don't believe me, just put your hands on me
